Cruise

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

The Carnival Spirit has recently undergone a transformative six-week dry dock experience, breathing new life into the venerable ship that first set sail in 2001. This significant refurbishment isn’t just about cosmetic changes; it signals Carnival’s commitment to enhancing customer experience while honoring the rich traditions that cruise-goers appreciate. The Spirit now boasts a vibrant

„The White Lotus,“ HBO’s striking black comedy, throws viewers into a whirlwind of chaos, drama, and dark humor, all set against the backdrop of lavish resorts. The show’s gripping storytelling draws audiences into the intricate lives of both guests and staff, creating an unmissable spectacle that goes beyond mere entertainment. However, there’s a fascinating interplay

Viking Holdings has made waves in the cruise industry with its impressive Q4 earnings report, showcasing not just stability but an upward trajectory that cements its position as a leader in both river and ocean cruising. With a staggering $5.33 billion in total revenue for the previous year, representing a robust 13% increase from the

Virgin Voyages is raising the bar for entertainment at sea with the much-anticipated debut of the Brilliant Lady, its latest ship, setting sail from New York City this September. Unlike any other cruise liners, Virgin Voyages is emphasizing immersive, high-energy productions designed to engage and enthrall guests in a unique setting. With seven original shows

Denali National Park and Preserve, a stunning expanse of natural beauty, is home to North America’s tallest peak and offers breathtaking landscapes. With only one access road—a 92-mile stretch that has become prominent in recent news—the park’s recent challenges due to climate change have actually created unique opportunities for thrill-seeking travelers. An unprecedented landslide in

Nestled in a nondescript office park in Tampa, far from the glamour typically associated with cruise lines, lies a creative powerhouse that orchestrates some of the most vibrant entertainment on the seas. Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) operates the Creative Studios, a sprawling 120,000-square-foot facility devoted to crafting memorable performances for their guests. At first

In an era where innovative business strategies dictate the fortunes of industries, the cruise sector has emerged as a beacon of financial growth. The world’s largest cruise companies are witnessing remarkable revenue growth that, increasingly, seems independent of traditional commission payouts to travel agents and brokers. Cleveland Research Co. recently conducted a comprehensive analysis, revealing

HX Expeditions is embarking on a bold new chapter as it transitions from its roots with Hurtigruten to an invigorating identity characterized by indigo blue and sand hues. This energetic rebranding marks a significant departure from the classic red and black, colors that once dominated the Hurtigruten narrative. The new palette is not merely a

Drew Barrymore has gracefully transitioned from her childhood stardom in „E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial“ to becoming a beloved television personality with her own talk show. Throughout the decades, Barrymore has continuously reinvented herself, managing to captivate audiences across multiple generations. Now, she embarks on an exciting new chapter, adding the prestigious role of godmother to MSC