In recent years, the traditional notion of a luxury cruise has been dramatically reshaped by an innovative strategy—curating celebrity-centric experiences that turn ordinary travel into extraordinary social spectacles. As the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection demonstrated with their recent star-studded maiden voyage aboard Luminara, marrying high-profile personalities with upscale sea travel is not just a marketing gimmick
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The recent surge of attention surrounding the Netflix documentary “Trainwreck: Poop Cruise” has cast a long shadow over the cruise industry. While the film’s sensational title grabs immediate attention, its underlying message risks reinforcing outdated perceptions rooted in a single, albeit notorious, incident. The 2013 Carnival Triumph disaster, where a massive power failure left passengers
Smithsonian Journeys has announced a bold expansion of its travel offerings for 2026 and 2027, revealing a lineup of fresh, innovative itineraries that marry cultural richness with unique thematic experiences. Moving beyond their traditional routes, the new programming reflects a nimble adaptability to evolving traveler interests, notably embracing astrotourism and immersive river cruises. The addition
Carnival Cruise Line’s announcement of its revamped loyalty program, aptly named “Carnival Rewards,” is shaking the loyalty landscape in the cruising world. As the iconic cruise line embarks on this ambitious restructuring, there’s palpable tension among its loyal patrons, who feel blindsided by drastic changes to what they once regarded as a steadfast promise of
Carnival Cruise Line plans to unveil an exciting new loyalty program named Carnival Rewards on June 1, 2026. This change marks a pivotal moment in the cruise industry, moving away from the existing Very Important Fun Person (VIFP) program, which has been a staple in Carnival’s rewards ecosystem. The rationale behind this transition is indicative
Rod McLeod’s passing on June 3, mere days shy of his 85th birthday, marks a poignant moment for the cruise industry—a collective farewell to a marketing luminary whose influence has shaped the very essence of sea travel. Reflecting on McLeod’s career, it’s clear that his innovative strategic approaches and warm interpersonal skills were not merely
As someone who spent my formative years in Illinois, the allure of the Windy City and its surrounding neighborhoods was a constant background melody during my childhood. Visits to family in Oak Park and Hyde Park laid the groundwork for a love of architecture, but it wasn’t until a recent cruise that I truly appreciated
The journey of a leader can often be defined by the obstacles they navigate and the innovations they implement. Since joining Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) as the Senior Vice President of Sales for North America in April 2023, John Chernesky has been on a path of transformative leadership. His primary aim? Keeping Norwegian Cruise Line
As the travel industry emerges from the unprecedented disruptions of the past few years, notable players like American Marketing Group have been pivotal in reviving enthusiasm and demand among travelers. Despite a brief slowdown at the end of the first quarter of 2025, indications from industry insiders suggest that the momentum is not only recovering
The Orient Express, renowned for its unparalleled luxury and elegance in rail travel, is now venturing into the world of yachting with its first vessel, the Orient Express Corinthian. This bold transition from land to sea reflects the brand’s relentless commitment to reimagining travel experiences. Set to launch in June 2026, the Corinthian promises to
Royal Caribbean International is poised to enhance the cruising experience significantly with its upcoming ship, the Star of the Seas. Set to sail soon, this ship marks the debut of a rather unique and unexpected crew member: a three-month-old golden retriever named Sailor. Following the success of Rover, the cruise line’s first “chief dog officer”
The concept of living at sea has transitioned from idle dreams to a tangible reality, as the residential cruise industry begins to make waves. The notion that consumers can purchase an entire cabin and enjoy a life of leisure aboard a luxury cruise ship year-round has started to captivate a niche audience. With increased global
Recent developments in taxation related to cruise tourism have ignited fierce debates, particularly in places like Skagway, Alaska. The new ordinance that changes the taxation parameter for shore excursions challenges the existing relationship between cruise lines and local economies. With the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) taking legal action against the borough, these changes not
The cruise industry is brimming with optimism, with the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) projecting that 42 million passengers will set sail by 2028. This enthusiasm is supported by their annual State of the Industry report, published on May 22, which highlights significant growth in various facets of cruising. A detailed examination of the statistics
The countdown has begun for Travel Weekly’s much-anticipated CruiseWorld, set against the vibrant backdrop of Fort Lauderdale at the Broward County Convention Center from November 5 to 7, 2023. This event is not merely a date on the calendar for travel advisors; it is a critical opportunity to immerse themselves in the cutting-edge developments of
Viking Cruises has emerged as a formidable player in the cruise industry, with its 2025 bookings selling out at a staggering 92% as of early May. This rush to secure cruises reflects not just a strong demand for travel, but an unmistakable shift in consumer behavior where travel becomes an essential experience rather than a
The luxury cruise industry finds itself at a crossroads where environmental concerns clashing with traditional consumer preferences question the sustainability of its operational model. Despite an increased awareness of climate issues, many industry leaders suggest that affluent travelers prioritize destination allure and pricing above all else. In discussions with cruise executives and market specialists, a
Royal Caribbean is stepping into a new chapter of adventure and relaxation with its highly anticipated project, Perfect Day Mexico, set to debut in fall 2027. This expansive 200-acre resort in the stunning Mexican Caribbean is not merely a retreat; it is a vibrant playground designed to cater to thrill-seekers and leisure-lovers alike. With an