The landscape of travel has undergone significant changes in recent years, most notably due to the pandemic’s disruptive effects. While the travel industry initially braced for a complete upheaval, a remarkable resurgence of travel advisors has emerged as one of the defining stories of recovery. In 2019, travel advisors played a role in booking 70%
Cruise
In an era where customer satisfaction reigns supreme, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) has introduced a groundbreaking concept known as “return on experience” (ROEx). Revealed at the company’s recent Investor Day, ROEx aims to elevate the cruise experience by focusing on guest-centered engagement rather than the traditional measure of return on investment (ROI). CEO Harry
In 2022, Margaritaville at Sea made its debut as a budget cruise option, offering quick, two-night getaways aboard an aging vessel. Now, under new management from Sycamore Partners, the brand is set to undergo a pronounced transformation, with ambitions to amplify its service offerings and enhance the sailing experience for guests. The cruise line is
Crystal Cruises is poised to usher in a new chapter with the firm establishment of an order for a third ship, set to enter service in 2032. This announcement not only signifies the cruise line’s growth ambitions but also highlights a strategic collaboration with renowned shipbuilder Fincantieri. Previously informal agreements have now crystallized into a
Celebrity Cruises is poised to explore new horizons as it prepares for the upcoming launch of its final Edge-class ship, the Celebrity Xcel, set to debut in November. Brand president Laura Hodges Bethge unveiled her vision at CruiseWorld, sharing insights into the company’s aspirations as they transition from current projects to future endeavors. The ambitious
The world of travel has evolved dramatically, especially for the LGBTQ+ community. What once required elaborate planning or the creation of add-on “mini queer cruises” within larger cruise itineraries has given way to a burgeoning market of LGBTQ+ tailored luxury cruises. By catering specifically to this vibrant and diverse community, companies have begun to offer
Princess Cruises recently announced the cancellation of its Regal Princess’s third successive voyage, originally slated to embark from Galveston for a Western Caribbean itinerary. This unfortunate decision comes on the heels of previous cancellations due to significant issues with the ship’s power generators. The situation escalated further when a second generator malfunctioned just as preparations
As the travel industry continues to recover and evolve, the role of travel advisors has become increasingly paramount. Within this context, it is crucial for advisors to carve out their niche and make themselves visible to cruise line representatives eager to partner for mutual growth. At a recent event, Travel Weekly’s CruiseWorld, leading voices from
Small-ship cruising has gained remarkable traction among travelers thanks to its ability to access places unreachable by larger vessels. Those who have ventured into this world often find more than just unique ports of call; they experience a sense of intimacy and belonging that larger cruise lines cannot mimic. The recent Conversation with Cruise Leadership
MSC Cruises is enhancing its customer loyalty program with a new membership tier known as Blue Diamond. Positioned proudly above the previous top tier, Diamond, Blue Diamond offers a broader range of exclusive benefits and an elevated cruising experience for dedicated passengers. Achieving this prestigious status requires hitting 25,000 points, a significant step up from
Royal Caribbean’s latest vessel, the Icon of the Seas, is shifting paradigms in the cruise industry as it nears its first anniversary. The ship has garnered enthusiastic reception from travelers and critics alike, boasting impressive customer satisfaction scores that highlight its success. The enthusiastic feedback reflects a well-executed vision, underscoring Royal Caribbean’s commitment to providing
At the Broward County Convention Center, a vibrant display of energy unfolded during this year’s CruiseWorld conference, with the message “travel agents rock!” emblazoned on navy blue t-shirts throughout the venue. This gathering, attended by approximately 1,200 participants, served as a testament to the vital role that travel agents play in the cruise industry. With
In a rapidly evolving landscape of the travel industry, professionals are urged to not only adapt but to actively seek out new experiences that challenge their established norms. During the recent CruiseWorld conference, Ken Muskat, the managing director of Scenic Group USA, shared an inspiring message captivating a crowd of approximately 200 travel advisors. He
The cruise industry stands at a pivotal juncture, as companies grapple with the dual pressures of record-breaking growth and the urgent need for sustainable practices. Jason Liberty, the CEO of Royal Caribbean Group and chairman of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), recently highlighted this paradox during a keynote at CruiseWorld. As the largest cruise
Over the past six years, J.D. O’Hara has taken the helm of Internova Travel Group, steering the company through a transformative process aimed at simplifying operations within a notoriously convoluted sector. As the CEO, O’Hara’s main focus has been to streamline Internova’s vast ecosystem, which encompasses around 50 diverse brands. The challenge of simplifying such
A journey on the Margaritaville at Sea Islander is much more than just a cruise; it’s an invitation to embrace the laid-back atmosphere emblematic of Jimmy Buffett’s lifestyle. Departing from the vibrant city of Tampa, Florida, and sailing toward the enchanting Cozumel, this four-day voyage offers passengers an escape into a world of tropical charm
The cruise industry has enjoyed a resurgence in popularity in recent years, with new ships and exciting itineraries drawing enthusiastic travelers. However, as the market expands rapidly, industry experts caution that over-saturation could diminish demand and erode pricing power. This article will explore the current state of the cruise industry, assess potential threats, and consider
In the competitive world of cruise lines, delivering exceptional and unforgettable experiences is paramount. Royal Caribbean Group aims to set a new standard with the announcement of another addition to its fleet of private destinations: Perfect Day Mexico, slated to launch in 2027. This ambitious project, positioned adjacent to the Costa Maya cruise port, reflects