As the tourism landscape increasingly embraces sustainability, G Adventures is making waves by launching a fleet of five eco-conscious sailing yachts for its 2025 Greek islands itineraries. Scheduled to embark on voyages from April to October, these 57-foot vessels are designed to accommodate up to ten passengers in a comfortable and intimate setting. Each yacht
Cruise
The picturesque town of Bar Harbor, Maine, faces a critical turning point as the local electorate prepares for a vote in November regarding the future of cruise ship passenger limits. The issue at hand revolves around a controversial 1,000-passenger cap on cruise visitors which was enacted by the community in a referendum two years ago.
In recent years, the travel industry has found itself facing a unique challenge: how to entice cruise passengers to extend their vacations beyond the time spent aboard their vessels. While the allure of a cruise often lies in the sea and the destinations involved, major players in the tourism sector are moving towards creating an
In the darker depths of our oceans lie remnants of maritime history, patiently waiting to tell their stories. One such treasure, the World War I-era supply ship known as the Titania, had eluded treasure hunters and casual fishermen alike for over a century. However, recent efforts have unearthed its resting place off the coast of
The Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has been known for its dedication to innovation and passenger experience, and its latest vessel, the Norwegian Aqua, is no exception. Slated to debut in March, this ship marks a significant evolution in the cruise brand’s offerings. Measuring 156,300 gross tons and extending 1,056 feet in length, the Aqua is
Avoya Travel, positioned impressively at No. 36 on Travel Weekly’s Power List, is making significant strides in the travel industry with the incorporation of its latest technology, the Avoya Live Bookings engine. This new tool represents a pivotal shift from traditional booking methods, empowering consumers to take control of their cruising experience while maintaining support
Viking Cruises, often synonymous with river cruising since its inception in 1979, has been undergoing a notable transformation. The company first captured the market with its fleet of river ships, establishing itself as the leader with a staggering 51% share of the sector. However, the narrative began to change when Viking ventured into ocean cruising
Margaritaville at Sea is making headlines as it broadens its cruise offerings with exciting new itineraries to Nassau. This new venture emphasizes a unique ship-to-resort experience, a partnership that combines the innovative spirit of Margaritaville with the idyllic setting of the Margaritaville Beach Resort Nassau. Starting in January, the Margaritaville at Sea Paradise will embark
Windstar Cruises has announced an exciting transformation for its Wind Surf sailing ship, scheduled to commence this November in Cadiz, Spain. Set to re-emerge on December 21, the ship will feature an array of enhanced suites and public spaces designed to elevate the onboard experience for guests. This renovation not only reflects Windstar’s commitment to
CruiseWorld is set to make waves again, returning to the Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center from November 6 to 8, 2023. This event, organized by Northstar Travel Group and supported by Visit Lauderdale as the official destination sponsor, promises to be a dynamic platform for travel advisors eager to enhance their business operations and
The world of luxury travel is rapidly evolving, and with it, the landscape of cruise lines is undergoing significant transformation. As the sector grows and attracts a diverse clientele, the recent appointment of Anna Nash as president of Explora Journeys illuminates both the potential and challenges within the luxury cruise arena. With a wealth of
In the wake of significant disruptions wrought by the COVID-19 pandemic, the travel industry is witnessing a notable transformation characterized by the adoption of the term „normalization.“ This concept encapsulates the industry’s transition from the explosive growth seen as restrictions lifted to a more moderate yet stable trajectory. Industry experts gathered at the World Travel
The rise of customer loyalty programs has revolutionized various industries in recent years, with companies keenly striving to extend the lifetime value of each customer. In the realm of travel, particularly within the expedition cruise segment, these initiatives hold significant promise. As cruise lines endeavor to cultivate a devoted customer base, innovative loyalty programs are
The travel industry, which experienced unprecedented highs following the relaxation of COVID-19 restrictions, is now navigating a paradoxical phase where the term „normalization“ has been frequently referenced among industry leaders. This dynamic discussion arose during the World Travel & Tourism Council’s Global Summit in Perth, Australia, where various stakeholders shared insights on the current state
The SS United States, often lauded as America’s maritime marvel, is facing a pivotal moment that could determine its fate as a cultural symbol. Known for its astonishing speed and elegance, the ocean liner made waves from 1952 to 1969, capturing the spirit of post-war transatlantic travel. Today, discussions are underway that might lead to
As Hurricane Milton disrupts normal operations along Florida’s coast, the fallout has been particularly pronounced for the cruise industry. With several cruise ships at sea unable to return to their homeports due to port closures, it is shaping up to be a significant challenge for cruise lines, crews, and passengers alike. The storm has not
Royal Caribbean International continues to innovate and enhance the cruising experience with its latest project: a private destination titled Perfect Day Mexico, set to debut in 2027. Situated in Mahahual, south of Cozumel in Quintana Roo, this ambitious project signals the company’s intent to capture the essence of Mexican culture and natural beauty, much like
After a protracted absence of nearly seven months, Royal Caribbean International is set to resume its cruises to Labadee, a private resort destination in Haiti. The Adventure of the Seas is expected to lead this return, followed closely by Symphony of the Seas, the latter of which adjusted its itinerary due to Hurricane Milton. This
In a significant decision, Juneau voters have shown overwhelming opposition to a proposed measure aimed at restricting cruise ship operations in their port. Preliminary results indicate that nearly 60% of residents rejected Proposition #2, which aimed to ban cruise ships carrying more than 250 passengers from docking in Juneau on Saturdays and July 4. The
Cruising, often hailed as a luxurious escape into serene waters, has witnessed significant changes in recent years. Among these innovations, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has taken a prominent step by transforming its service offerings through the introduction of its revamped program: More at Sea. This new initiative not only represents a shift from the previous
The Caribbean, long hailed as a paradise for cruisers, is currently facing unpredictable challenges due to Hurricane Milton. As meteorological conditions intensify, cruise lines have demonstrated their agility and concern for passenger safety by altering itineraries. This proactive response to impending storms underlines the unpredictable nature of sea travel, especially during hurricane season, and raises
The cruise industry, which once faced tumultuous waters due to global disruptions, has experienced a remarkable resurgence, with Carnival Corporation at the helm of this upswing. Under the leadership of CEO Josh Weinstein, Carnival Corp. has not only weathered the storms of recent years but emerged as a beacon of financial success. With an impressive
The cruise industry is experiencing a significant transformation, particularly in the niche market of expedition cruising. A notable shift occurred with the recent appointment of Steve Smotrys as managing director and senior vice president of commercial operations for HX, the newly rebranded form of Hurtigruten Expeditions. This strategic move suggests a dynamic approach to enhancing
Dominica, often referred to as the „Nature Island of the Caribbean,“ is undergoing a significant transformation as it bolsters its tourism sector through a variety of innovative infrastructure projects. The island recorded over 339,000 tourist arrivals in 2023, showcasing a notable 37% increase from the previous year. Such growth not only highlights the island’s natural
On October 1, 2023, the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) initiated a strike that has since disrupted port operations along the vast stretch of the U.S. coastline, from Maine all the way to Texas. This collective action by port workers is aimed at negotiating better wages and addressing growing concerns over the impact of automation within
As the cruise industry continues to evolve, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is making significant strides in enhancing the guest experience. In a bold move to redefine its offerings, NCL has announced the discontinuation of its Free at Sea and Free at Sea Plus pricing options, replacing them with a comprehensive new package known as More
Traveling across time zones is often romanticized: the excitement of new cultures, foods, and landscapes. However, burying the underlying challenges, particularly jet lag, lays a harsh reality that affects travelers profoundly. Time changes can disorient the body’s natural rhythms, leading to fatigue, irritability, and a myriad of physical ailments. As I explored the American Southwest
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