Cruise

For travel advisors aspiring to penetrate the luxury cruise market, the process can seem overwhelming. Dondra Ritzenthaler, CEO of Azamara, provides valuable guidance on strategically approaching this niche during a recent episode of the „Trade Secrets“ podcast. In discerning the right clientele for high-end cruises, advisors must begin by identifying existing customers who have previously

Carnival Corporation is witnessing an impressive resurgence in the cruise industry, as highlighted in their recent Q3 earnings call led by CEO Josh Weinstein. With nearly 50% of their inventory for 2025 already sold, the company is poised for significant growth, boasting extraordinary early bookings for 2026. This feat indicates a shift in consumer sentiment

As the expedition cruise industry continues to evolve, HX (formerly known as Hurtigruten Expeditions) is embarking on a significant transformation, primarily under the leadership of its new CEO, Gebhard Rainer. This transition represents not just a change in name, but a strategic move to establish HX as a standalone entity within the Hurtigruten Group. With

Just a few months ago, Gebhard Rainer was synonymous with luxurious Caribbean getaways as the CEO of Sandals Resorts International. Transitioning from a well-established brand known for its sun-soaked vacations to leading HX, an expedition cruise line that focuses on exploring some of the planet’s coldest corners, is monumental. This shift isn’t merely a career

As the travel industry continues to rebound, Pleasant Holidays has stepped into the spotlight by announcing its acceptance of bookings for the 2024 season with Victory Cruise Lines. This marks a significant revival in the cruise experience offered on the Great Lakes, and a chance for travelers to explore this unique natural wonder through a

As Hurricane Helene intensified into a formidable storm earlier this week, it quickly became a significant threat to both life and travel in the Gulf of Mexico. This event serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable power of nature, especially during hurricane season. Helene’s trajectory, moving northward and anticipated to make landfall in the

In recent years, cruising in Alaska has seen a remarkable surge in popularity, particularly post-pandemic, as travelers flock to the state’s stunning natural beauty and unique cultural experiences. The industry’s growth has been fueled by substantial investments in newer and larger vessels, extending the cruising season to accommodate a burgeoning demand. However, this flourishing business

Carnival Cruise Line is ready to take its guests on a culinary journey at its upcoming private destination, Celebration Key, set to open in Grand Bahama next July. This vibrant locale is not just a beach getaway but promises to be a gastronomic haven with over 30 distinct food and beverage outlets. From casual snack

As the cruise industry gears up for the Q3 earnings season, anticipation grows among analysts and investors alike. Carnival Corp., one of the leading players in this sector, is set to unveil its quarterly performance soon. This early release will not only shed light on its specific financial status but may also serve as a

In the competitive landscape of the hospitality and tourism industries, leadership changes often signal a pivotal moment for organizations. Such is the case for Hornblower Group, where Mike Flaskey recently assumed the role of CEO. With a robust background in hospitality and a wealth of experience, Flaskey’s appointment comes during a crucial time as the

Virgin Voyages’ inaugural ship, the Scarlet Lady, is poised to evolve with a comprehensive upgrade during a drydock scheduled from November 13 to 28. Originally launched in 2021, this endeavor represents not just a facelift, but a strategic move to enhance the overall cruising experience for guests. The upgrades are set to introduce a plethora

This November, the Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center will host CruiseWorld, a premier event organized by Northstar Travel Group. Running from November 6 to 8, this annual gathering is crucial for travel advisors looking to enhance their business acumen and industry knowledge. With Visit Lauderdale as the official destination sponsor, attendees can expect a

As the luxury travel scene evolves, few experiences offer as enticing a combination of high-end comfort and adventure as the Four Seasons Explorer yacht. While the anticipation grows for the upcoming launch of Four Seasons Yachts in the Mediterranean in 2026, an established gem already sails under the prestigious brand’s flag. This catamaran has been

In September 2023, Viking embarked on its first ocean cruise for English-speaking travelers in China, marking a significant milestone in the cruise industry. After a hiatus due to the pandemic, the Viking Sun, newly named the Yi Dun, set sail on an inaugural 10-day journey from Shanghai to Shenzhen (Hong Kong), alongside various other coastal

When someone mentions Croatia, our minds often conjure images of sun-soaked coastlines, historic architecture, and tantalizing cuisine. Recently, upon my return from this stunning country, a friend inquired whether the allure of Croatia remained intact, especially given the increasing crowds. Reflecting on my prior visit over a decade ago, when I could meander through the

Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours is set to bring a taste of culinary excellence back to the high seas with the much-anticipated return of Chef Bryan Voltaggio. This collaboration, part of the brand’s esteemed „Tastes of Discovery“ series, promises an unforgettable 11-day voyage from July 15, 2025, featuring a spectacular route that circumnavigates Iceland and

After nearly six years of dedicated service, Kelly Craighead, the president and CEO of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), will be stepping down at the end of the year. Craighead’s leadership has been pivotal, particularly during one of the most challenging periods in the cruise industry’s history—an unprecedented pandemic that brought travel and tourism

The landscape of cruise tourism in Alaska is undergoing a significant transformation, with various ports expressing contrasting opinions on the industry’s future. While some regions are placing restrictions on cruise ships to meet community concerns, others are actively seeking to expand their tourism infrastructure. The situation encapsulates a growing tension between economic benefits and community

Royal Caribbean International has carved its niche in the cruise industry through innovation and adventurous itineraries. However, with the industry grappling with the challenges posed by the pandemic, the cruise line has ventured into uncharted territories with an ambitious project known as the Ultimate World Cruise, featuring a staggering duration of 274 days aboard the

The Norwegian Luna, set to embark from Miami starting April 2026, marks an exciting chapter in Norwegian Cruise Line’s (NCL) illustrious journey. This new addition to the Prima Plus fleet aligns with the company’s strategy of progressively enhancing its offerings by increasing the size and capacity of its vessels. Approximately 10% larger than its predecessor,

Alaska’s cruise industry, once a thriving sector, has been significantly reshaped in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. As cruise demand rebounds drastically, local governments like that of Juneau are taking measures to manage this surge. This article delves into the capacity restrictions now in place, the implications for cruise companies, and the future of

The cruise industry, with its combination of leisure, hospitality, and entertainment sectors, has showcased remarkable vigor amid fluctuating economic conditions and evolving consumer preferences. Notably, the three largest cruise companies have consistently revised their year-end financial forecasts upwards, a testament to their robust demand and positioning. This article delves into recent findings regarding the price

In a move that promises to invigorate the cruise industry and bring excitement to maritime enthusiasts, Carnival Cruise Line has announced that its ship, the Carnival Luminosa, will be homeporting in San Francisco starting in summer 2026. This strategic decision not only marks a significant advancement for the company but also heralds a new chapter

Azamara Cruises is launching a new training and incentive program for travel advisors. This program offers advisors the opportunity to earn bonus commissions on 2025 bookings if certain requirements are met. To qualify for the bonus, advisors must complete the Azamara World Academy training and earn an Azamara Cruises Expert certificate by October 31. Once

The world has lost a vibrant voice in the travel journalism community with the passing of Valarie D’Elia, who died at the age of 64 after a courageous battle with ALS. D’Elia was not just a travel journalist; she was an institution who inspired countless others through her passion for exploration and her commitment to

The recent appointment of Lisa Lutoff-Perlo as the chairwoman of Hornblower Group has garnered attention in the industry. With a background that includes being the former CEO and president of Celebrity Cruises, Lutoff-Perlo brings a wealth of experience to her new role. During her time at Celebrity Cruises, she oversaw the introduction of the innovative

Embarking on my first cruise in Asia with Viking’s inaugural oceangoing China voyage for Western travelers, I found myself in a state of anticipation and familiarity. The 10-day sail from Shanghai to Hong Kong aboard the Viking Yi Dun, formerly known as the Viking Sun, marked a significant milestone for both Viking and myself. The

Jenny Hunnicutt and her husband were fully immersed in the van life experience in late 2021 when they stumbled upon Royal Caribbean International’s groundbreaking world cruise. This 274-day adventure, promising to circumnavigate the globe, ignited a spark within the nomadic couple, prompting them to secure a cabin for $54,000 per person by the end of

Oceania Cruises prides itself on its reputation for offering the „finest cuisine at sea.“ While such a claim may seem bold in a sea of luxury cruise competitors, Oceania Cruises manages to deliver on this promise without the added upcharges that have become commonplace in the industry. On a recent voyage through the Greek Isles

Signature Travel Network has recently announced a significant partnership with the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada to launch exclusive Indigenous Tourism Education Modules. This collaboration aims to provide valuable resources for Indigenous tourism in Canada and educate travel professionals about the importance of Indigenous communities in the country. The three-part series, developed in conjunction with

Deciding on the perfect excursion during a cruise in Alaska can be a challenging task, especially when traveling with family members of various interests and preferences. It’s essential to consider factors such as age, dietary restrictions, and activity levels when selecting an excursion that will be enjoyable for everyone. Located at the southern tip of

Sitka, Alaska, has a long history with cruise tourism dating back to 1882. The industry has played a significant role in the local economy, but it has also been a source of contention and volatility. The documentary film „Cruise Boom,“ set to premiere on PBS, provides insights into the complex dynamics of cruise tourism in

Alaska’s cruise industry has been booming, with record-breaking cruise seasons and increasing popularity among tourists. However, the rapid growth has posed challenges for local officials and residents, particularly in Juneau. To address the surge in cruise ship visits, a deal was struck with cruise lines to cap the number of ships in the city and

Port Tampa Bay, known for its modern cruise ships, is set to welcome the prestigious Oceania Cruises in 2026. The luxury cruise line will bring its Insignia ship to Tampa, marking a significant departure from its usual port of Miami. This move is not only exciting for Oceania Cruises but also for Port Tampa Bay,

The Marquesas Islands stand out as a unique destination amidst the growing concern of overtourism. With the Aranui 5 being the primary ship that visits all six inhabited islands, passengers have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the local culture. From the love of music to the expression of art, the islands showcase a diverse

Royal Caribbean Group recently announced the ordering of a fourth Icon-class ship, with potential options for a fifth and sixth ship in the future. This endeavor solidifies the company’s commitment to growth and innovation within the cruise industry. The Icon-class ships represent a significant milestone for Royal Caribbean International, with the first vessel being hailed

The demand for cruise tourism in Africa is on the rise, with countries across the continent recognizing the economic potential and making strategic investments in infrastructure and policy. For example, Kenya has established a dedicated „blue economy“ sector to focus on cruise tourism and other maritime activities. This initiative showcases the country’s commitment to sustainable

In the wake of the pandemic, cruise lines across the board are experiencing a surge in demand for oceangoing voyages. While big-ship cruise lines are busy adding water slides and roller coasters to attract more passengers, even smaller operators with ships as small as 100-passenger capacities are feeling the pressure to expand their fleets. This

Carnival Corp. is making waves in the cruise industry with its investment in Celebration Key, a new private beach destination in Grand Bahama. This strategic move will not only enhance the existing private destination of Half Moon Cay but also open up opportunities for its sister lines to explore this beautiful Bahamian island. The expansion

The tropical vibes were in full swing at The Carlyle in Atlanta, with a lively Junkanoo band, sandcastle replicas, and colorful outfits setting the scene. However, despite the beach-like ambiance, the event was hosted indoors on a scorching hot day. Travel advisors were invited to get a sneak peek of Carnival Cruise Line’s latest venture,