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
Cruise
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,
The dazzling aqua waters and sandy shores of Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, formerly known as Lighthouse Beach, offer a unique private destination developed by Disney Cruise Line that celebrates Bahamian culture. This exclusive spot located on the southern tip of Eleuthera boasts stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, embodying a
The cruise industry has been experiencing an unprecedented surge in demand, with Viking CEO Tor Hagen revealing that the company’s highest-grossing sales week and best individual day occurred at the end of July. Furthermore, Viking reported a 9.1% year-over-year increase in revenue for the second quarter, reaching $1.59 billion. The company’s net income also saw
Norwegian Cruise Line is making waves with its 2026 spring and summer season by introducing three new ports of call in Europe. Travelers can now look forward to exploring the picturesque landscapes of Portree, Scotland; the charming town of Leirvik (Stord), Norway; and the vibrant city of Palamos, Spain. These new additions offer passengers a
Princess Cruises has announced a significant expansion of its summer presence in the Caribbean for the year 2026. This expansion will see the cruise line doubling its operations by homeporting one ship in Port Canaveral and another in Fort Lauderdale. This move marks the first time Princess Cruises will offer summer sailings from Port Canaveral,
Florida’s state government has recently applied pressure to the Canaveral Port Authority, resulting in the cancellation of plans for a new cruise terminal. The CEO of the port, Capt. John Murray, revealed that alternative solutions are now being considered in order to accommodate the anticipated growth in port traffic. The initial proposal for the new
Windstar Cruises has recently revealed exciting details about the upcoming Star Seeker ship, one of two new vessels currently in production. Among the innovative features of the Star Seeker are the two Horizon Owners Suites located at the aft of the ship on deck 7. These suites boast a wraparound balcony and can be combined
The Disney Adventure, set to be the largest ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet, will embark on three- and four-day cruises to nowhere from Singapore starting in 2025. This 208,000-gross-ton vessel promises a unique and magical experience for passengers of all ages. One of the standout features of the Disney Adventure is the Disney
As we approach the end of summer, it is essential to reflect on the challenges and opportunities that have shaped the travel industry in recent months. The month of July, in particular, proved to be a tumultuous period for Cruise.com, as recounted by its president, Anthony Hamawy. Despite facing multiple obstacles, Hamawy remains optimistic about
In the post-pandemic world where cruise bookings are skyrocketing and the cruise industry is thriving once again, cruise lines are embarking on a shopping spree like never before. This year alone, contemporary and family-oriented cruise lines have collectively ordered a whopping 14 ships, many of them larger and more luxurious than their predecessors. This surge
As I embarked on a Regent Seven Seas cruise, Malaga wasn’t initially on my list of must-visit destinations. However, as we docked in this charming city on Spain’s southern coast, I was taken aback by its sophistication and beauty. The sleek pier and modern roadway over the water provided a stunning introduction to what Malaga
Lindblad Expeditions‘ newest ships, the National Geographic Resolution and the National Geographic Endurance, boast an array of luxurious amenities that one would expect to find on upscale cruise ships. From spas to lounges, bars to tasting-menu dinners, these ships have it all. However, what truly sets them apart are the igloos perched on their decks.
Eight months after rebranding to HX from Hurtigruten Expeditions, the company has taken a significant step forward by launching a new travel advisor portal and online education platform. The primary goal behind this initiative is to simplify the name and distinguish it from Hurtigruten’s Coastal Express cruises in Norway. The revamped portal provides access to