Cruise

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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
The cruise industry is witnessing a significant transformation as a wave of new ships prepares to enter the waters. With various lines launching an impressive array of contemporary, premium, and luxury vessels, the upcoming months promise to redefine cruising experiences. This article delves into some of the key players in this evolution and analyzes how
The cruise industry is embarking on a transformation, with Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) spearheading a remarkable investment into its luxury brands. Over the next five years, NCLH plans to pour approximately $5 billion into new ship construction and refurbishments, marking the highest expenditure in the luxury cruise sector during this timeframe. This strategic initiative
Alaska, often lauded for its breathtaking landscapes, harbors a captivating allure for nature enthusiasts which is hard to resist. The ethereal combination of glaciers, majestic whales, and, notably, the elusive bears draws visitors from across the globe. Among these iconic spectacles, bears tend to be the hardest to encounter, rendering opportunities for direct observation precious
The year 2024 has proven to be particularly troubling for public health, especially in the context of gastrointestinal illnesses aboard cruise ships. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reflect an unsettling trend, marking a sharp increase in outbreaks of gastrointestinal (GI) illnesses, predominantly caused by norovirus. With cruise ships being mandated
Hurtigruten, the renowned Norwegian coastal cruise line, is reigniting its „Sell Three, Sail Free“ initiative aimed at travel advisors. This promotion is designed to reward advisors for their sales efforts by offering them a complimentary cruise experience upon achieving specific sales targets. As travel continues to rebound, Hurtigruten seeks to encourage agents to promote select
As air travel becomes increasingly essential to our connected world, the aviation industry finds itself reshaping its practices to embrace diverse populations, including neurodivergent individuals. Traditional air travel can present a series of challenges for those with sensory sensitivities, anxiety, or other cognitive differences, making the journey intimidating. However, initiatives such as Wings for Autism
The cruise industry is undergoing a transformation, marked by increasing competition and innovative designs. As we look ahead to 2025, industry watchers can expect a significant increase in the number of new vessels entering the North American market. With a total of twelve new ships scheduled to make their debut, including follow-ups from last year’s
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) has strategically appointed Jason Montague as its new Chief Luxury Officer, a move that signals an aggressive push into the upscale segment of the cruise market. With oversight of two prominent brands, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Montague is poised to leverage his extensive experience in the industry
Carnival Corp. has set its eyes on a revitalized vision for its private island experiences, aiming to capture the attention of vacationers who seek unique destinations. During a recent earnings call, CEO Josh Weinstein acknowledged the competitive landscape in the cruise industry, where rival companies excel at promoting their private island destinations. This recognition highlights