Cruise

The cruise industry has always embraced trends instilled by customer preferences and external economic factors. However, the case of Viking Cruise Lines showcases a pattern that stands apart from traditional practices employed by its competitors. Recently, Viking made headlines by announcing that it had sold 70% of its available cabins for 2025—an extraordinary achievement considering

In an ambitious move that redefines cruising, Virgin Voyages has introduced an innovative annual pass initiative, marking a significant milestone in the travel industry. This pass allows adventurous guests to embark on unlimited voyages aboard any of Virgin’s ships for a full year, a concept that has never been offered in the cruising sector before.

Cruises might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but for Eric Stonestreet, the prospect was entirely foreign until Norwegian Cruise Line offered him a remarkable opportunity. Enclosed within a vibrant world of opulent amenities and stunning seascapes, Stonestreet’s initiation into cruising has not only shaped his perception of leisure travel but also allowed him to

In a recent legislative move, Mexico’s Congress approved a new $42 passenger tax aimed at cruise tourists, a decision that has raised eyebrows within the cruise industry. The Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) has voiced strong opposition, suggesting that this tax could deter tourists and have long-lasting detrimental effects on Mexico’s tourism economy. Notably, executives from

The landscape of cruise vacations has shifted dramatically over the past few years, not only in terms of luxury offerings and destinations but also in how gratuities are structured. Recently, several cruise lines including Royal Caribbean International, Princess Cruises, and Holland America Line have raised their daily gratuity rates, reflecting broader trends in the service

The recent decision by Mexico’s Congress to impose a $42 immigration levy on cruise ship passengers has sent shockwaves through the maritime tourism sector. The legislation, passed by the lower house, has drawn fierce criticism from industry stakeholders who fear the repercussions could destabilize Mexico’s attractiveness as a cruise destination. This new fee, unprecedented for

In today’s highly competitive travel market, brand recognition plays a pivotal role in influencing consumer decisions. A recent exploration of a burgeoning trend in the expedition cruise segment reveals how the partnership between Lindblad Expeditions and National Geographic has dynamically shifted consumer perception and engagement. Upon embarking on a voyage with Lindblad, enthusiastic reactions from

In a bold decision to redefine the landscape of at-sea entertainment, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has made significant changes to its programming since the launch of the Norwegian Prima in August 2022. Fronting the entertainment lineup was „The Donna Summer Musical,“ a quintessential Broadway-style show aimed at providing guests with a taste of theatrical grandeur

Carnival Corporation is undergoing significant leadership changes as it seeks to reinvigorate its brands in the competitive cruise market. Effective December 2, 2023, Gus Antorcha will take over as the president of Princess Cruises, transitioning from his previous position as president of Holland America Line. This move comes as the cruise giant prepares to usher

Celestyal Cruises, a cruise line firmly rooted in the enchanting waters of the Greek islands and the broader eastern Mediterranean, is undertaking significant transformations. The company is not only refining its pricing structure but is also enhancing certain ships to align with the evolving demands of the contemporary cruise market. Brandon Townsley, Vice President and

The Black Friday phenomenon has redefined itself in recent years, transitioning from a single-day shopping extravaganza into an expansive booking season that significantly influences travel and vacation spending. Traditionally known as the gateway to the holiday shopping period, this event has morphed into a complex tapestry of discounts, promotions, and competitive strategies that extends well

The global cruise industry stands at a pivotal juncture as it grapples with increasing scrutiny regarding its environmental impact. With over 60 new vessels scheduled to launch in the coming years, cruise lines are under significant pressure to improve their sustainability efforts. In recent years, many operators have turned to liquefied natural gas (LNG) as

Year after year, a loyal cadre of travelers returns to SeaDream Yacht Club, a smaller entity within the luxury cruising world that focuses on the elegance of yachting rather than traditional cruise offerings. I had the privilege of sailing aboard SeaDream I, formerly known as the Seabourn Sea Goddess I, in September. This experience piqued

In an age where information is abundant but often diluted with advertising motives and sponsorships, the credibility of travel reviews, particularly those concerning cruise lines, is increasingly under scrutiny. The challenge for travel advisers lies not only in presenting their clients with a plethora of options but also in ensuring that the advice given is

Disney continues to carve a niche in the cruise industry with its latest vessel, the Disney Treasure. Unveiled amid much anticipation, this ship embodies a thrilling intersection of nautical adventure and beloved park attractions. As the ship casts a magical shadow over the Hudson River during a media preview event, it’s clear that Disney has

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has recently made headlines by announcing the cancellation of 38 cruises scheduled between November 2025 and April 2026, a decision that affects several itineraries on popular ships including the Norwegian Dawn, Norwegian Jewel, and Norwegian Star. This unexpected move has left many potential travelers in limbo, questioning their plans and looking

Viking Holdings has once again demonstrated its financial strength, reporting a substantial 11% increase in revenue, totaling $1.68 billion for the third quarter of the fiscal year. This growth in revenue is a strong indicator of the company’s resilience amidst fluctuating market conditions. Despite external challenges and uncertainties, such as geopolitical tensions and shifts in

Eric Stonestreet, renowned for his role as the lovable Cameron Tucker in ABC’s widely acclaimed sitcom „Modern Family,“ is set to embark on a new adventure—this time, as the godfather of the Norwegian Aqua. The official christening ceremony for the Norwegian Cruise Line’s latest ship will take place in Miami on April 13, marking a

On a sparkling evening in New York City, the iconic Disney brand added another layer to its legacy with the christening of the Disney Treasure. This event, held at Chelsea Piers, was accentuated by a spectacular drone show that formed the shape of a Polynesian outrigger canoe, evoking memories of the beloved film „Moana.“ Against

In the intricate landscape of the travel industry, especially in the cruise sector, the crux of success often hinges upon robust relationships. As highlighted during Travel Weekly’s CruiseWorld conference, business development managers (BDMs) play a pivotal role in the success of travel advisors. Eric Schmit, director of business development at Regent Seven Seas Cruises, underscored

As the holiday shopping season rapidly approaches, travelers are presented with an unexpected gift: substantial cruise deals emerging far ahead of traditional retail events like Black Friday. This early push in promotions highlights a shift not only in consumer habits but also in marketing strategies within the travel industry. Cruise lines have adapted by launching

As Thanksgiving approaches, anticipation builds for the influx of travelers across the United States. According to projections from the American Automobile Association (AAA), an astonishing 79.9 million Americans are expected to hit the road, board flights, and embark on cruises between November 26 and December 2. This marks a notable increase of 1.7 million compared

In an effort to enhance late-night dining options, Carnival Cruise Line has restructured its pizza service, a popular offering among guests. The traditional pizza counters, which previously offered made-to-order options until the wee hours of the morning, have now adopted a revised schedule that might reshape the nighttime culinary experience for cruise-goers. This change aims

In an increasingly pet-centric society, the bond between humans and their canine companions is evolving into a lifestyle choice that transcends traditional boundaries. As pet owners seek to include their dogs in various aspects of their lives, the travel industry has started to adapt to these changing preferences. One groundbreaking development in this sector is

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has made an exciting announcement, unveiling its cruise itineraries for the fall and winter season of 2026-27 alongside a can’t-miss Black Friday sale. This promotion allows travelers to secure substantial discounts, with an incredible 50% off the published rates for cruises scheduled from September 2026 to April 2027. Such offers not

In a bold move to simplify its offerings and enhance guest experience, Celestyal Cruises, a leading Greek cruise line, has announced significant alterations to its fare structure. Effective from December 11 for cruises departing on March 21 and after, the company will abolish its previously popular Experience and Experience Plus packages, replacing them with a

The COVID-19 pandemic has left a profound impact on the travel and tourism sector, particularly for cruise lines. As we transition into a post-pandemic world, the role of travel advisors has undergone a transformative change. During a recent conference at CruiseWorld, Frank A. Del Rio, the president of Oceania Cruises, spoke candidly about the resurgence

In an evolving landscape of customer service and experience, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) introduced a forward-thinking concept termed „Return on Experience“ (ROEx). This novel philosophy, presented by CEO Harry Sommer, emphasizes the importance of curating experiences that resonate with guests, all while ensuring efficiency in execution. Unlike traditional metrics focused solely on financial return,

Crystal Cruises is charting a bold new course in the luxury travel sector with the announcement of a firm order for a third ship, set to be built by the renowned shipyard Fincantieri and slated for delivery in 2032. This development marks a pivotal moment for the cruise line, especially following the recent firm orders

In 2022, Margaritaville at Sea made a splash in the cruise industry with its inaugural offering—a budget-friendly, two-night getaway aboard an aging vessel. Originally tethered to a modest vision, the brand has undergone significant changes since being acquired by Sycamore Partners, a private equity firm that operates luxury cruises through Azamara. This transition not only

Celebrity Cruises is gearing up for a significant transformation with the upcoming launch of its fifth and final Edge-class ship, set to debut in November. Brand President Laura Hodges Bethge unveiled an ambitious vision at CruiseWorld, revealing that the cruise line is entering what she describes as the „dreaming stage“ for its next series of

In recent years, the landscape of travel has evolved significantly, particularly for the LGBTQ+ community. Once confined to conventional cruise itineraries often designed for mass tourism, LGBTQ+ travelers now seek experiences that resonate with their identities and lifestyles. Traditional cruises, with their generalized approach, often failed to cater to the unique needs and desires of

Small-ship cruises have quietly emerged as a transformative force within the cruise industry. Unlike their larger counterparts, which are often focused solely on high-capacity travel and standardized itineraries, small-ship lines offer unique opportunities to connect with both destinations and the vessels themselves. This duality is essential to understand, as it reflects a newer trend in

Princess Cruises has recently found itself in a challenging predicament as the Regal Princess faces substantial technical difficulties, leading to the cancellation of multiple sailings. Initially scheduled to embark on a Western Caribbean itinerary from Galveston, Texas, the ship’s operations have been halted not once, but three times now due to persistent issues with its

In the rapidly changing environment of the travel industry, travel advisors are increasingly encouraged to enhance their visibility and engagement with cruise line partners. During a recent panel at Travel Weekly’s CruiseWorld event, several key executives emphasized the importance of proactive communication and relationship-building, which are vital for distinguishing oneself in an overcrowded marketplace. John

MSC Cruises has introduced a transformative addition to its loyalty program, the Voyagers Club, with the launch of the Blue Diamond tier. Designed to augment the cruising experience for loyal guests, this tier comes into effect once members accumulate 25,000 points, significantly higher than the previous elite level, Diamond, which only required 10,000 points. This

In recent years, the cruise industry has faced a dual challenge: maintaining robust customer engagement and addressing escalating environmental concerns. As companies like the Royal Caribbean Group navigate this intricate landscape, they are compelled to innovate continually while adhering to stricter environmental regulations. The dual goals of creating memorable customer experiences and achieving sustainability are

In an ever-evolving travel industry, complacency can be a significant barrier to success. Ken Muskat, managing director of Scenic Group USA, recently emphasized the importance of stepping outside conventional boundaries during a session at the CruiseWorld conference. Addressing around 200 travel advisors, Muskat shared his own transformative experiences, underscoring that taking risks can lead to

In the realm of cruise vacations, few ships have generated as much excitement and anticipation as Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas. As it nears its first anniversary of operation, the ship has not only met expectations but has also redefined industry benchmarks through impressive customer satisfaction scores and high ticket sales. This ambitious vessel

In the ever-evolving landscape of travel and tourism, the cruise industry stands out as a beacon of innovation and growth. During this year’s CruiseWorld conference in Fort Lauderdale, attended by around 1,200 travel agents and industry stakeholders, Carnival Cruise Line’s CEO Josh Weinstein delivered a rousing address highlighting the current trends in cruising and the