Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has taken a significant step in evolving its onboard offerings by transitioning from the Free at Sea and Free at Sea Plus pricing structures to a comprehensive package named More at Sea. This new initiative reflects a strategic shift toward enhancing guest experiences through a more inclusive and luxurious approach, set
Cruise
Breaking into the luxury cruise industry can be a daunting task for many travel advisors. However, as noted by Dondra Ritzenthaler, CEO of Azamara, the right strategy can pave the way for success. The first step in capturing luxury clientele is to tap into an existing database of customers. It is essential to identify clients
In the ever-evolving landscape of the cruise industry, Carnival Corp. has recently demonstrated remarkable resilience and growth, a trend that seems to echo optimism among both investors and consumers alike. During the company’s Q3 earnings call, Josh Weinstein, the CEO, disclosed that nearly 50% of Carnival’s inventory for 2025 has already been booked, revealing an
In a transformative moment for the expedition cruise sector, Gebhard Rainer, the newly appointed CEO of HX (formerly Hurtigruten Expeditions), expressed the brand’s bold aspirations from the deck of their flagship vessel, the Fridtjof Nansen. The significant transition marks the company’s commitment to independence, distancing itself from its sister brand Hurtigruten, which specializes in coastal
In an intriguing twist of fate, Gebhard Rainer transitioned from leading the sunny realms of Sandals Resorts International to the bracing environments of HX (formerly Hurtigruten Expeditions), a company specializing in expedition cruises to some of Earth’s most remote, icy locales. Rainer’s recent appointment marks a significant structural and philosophical shift for HX, as he
Pleasant Holidays has announced a fresh wave of bookings for Victory Cruise Lines, setting the stage for its eagerly awaited return to the Great Lakes. The operator is rolling out promotional terms that are available until December 4, creating an appealing opportunity for travelers eager to explore this picturesque region. This pivotal moment marks not
Carnival Cruise Line is set to elevate the cruise experience with the upcoming launch of Celebration Key, a private destination located on the picturesque Grand Bahama Island, scheduled to open in July. This remarkable venture offers travelers more than just stunning beach landscapes; it will feature an impressive array of culinary options that are sure
Hurricane Helene swiftly escalated to hurricane status on Wednesday, wreaking havoc in the Gulf of Mexico and significantly impacting both land and sea travel. As the storm approached landfall in the Florida Panhandle, travel plans for countless individuals were disrupted. Particularly hard-hit were popular cruise itineraries along the Florida West Coast and ports such as
The allure of Alaska, with its stunning landscapes and vibrant wildlife, has seen a remarkable resurgence in cruise tourism following the COVID-19 pandemic. As travelers seek both adventure and the opportunity to reconnect with nature, cruise lines have rallied to accommodate this renewed interest. They have made substantial investments in larger, more modern vessels, enhancing
As the Q3 earnings season approaches, the cruise industry finds itself in a position of intriguing potential. With Carnival Corp. leading the charge in revealing its financial standing for the quarter, the subsequent updates from Royal Caribbean Group and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings will offer a clear picture of the industry’s overall performance. Analysts are
CruiseWorld, orchestrated by the Northstar Travel Group, is returning to the vibrant Greater Fort Lauderdale area from November 6 to 8. This year, as Visit Lauderdale takes the spotlight as the official destination sponsor, the event promises an array of opportunities for travel agents to enhance their skills and expand their networks. To maximize this
As Mike Flaskey embarks on his tenure as CEO of Hornblower Group, the challenges before him are formidable yet brimming with potential. Having taken the helm after a tumultuous period, including a Chapter 11 bankruptcy and the cessation of American Queen Voyages, Flaskey is more than prepared to reinvigorate a company that stands at the
Virgin Voyages, the cruise industry’s game-changer, is set to enhance its flagship vessel, the Scarlet Lady, during an ambitious drydock from November 13 to 28, 2023. Since its launch in 2021, the Scarlet Lady has aimed to redefine cruising with its unique take on entertainment, dining, and onboard experiences. With the upcoming renovations, Virgin Voyages
Luxury cruising has reached new heights with the Four Seasons Explorer, a standout catamaran yacht that has been catering to elite travelers for over two decades. While anticipation builds around the new Four Seasons Yachts set to debut in the Mediterranean in 2026, the Explorer is already captivating guests with its unique offerings. Initially making
In a bold move to revitalize cruise travel in China, Viking recently embarked on its inaugural ocean cruise catering exclusively to English-speaking travelers. The journey, which started in mid-September aboard the newly named Yi Dun, marks a significant milestone for the cruise line, having transitioned from river to ocean voyages after the pandemic-induced hiatus. The
As tourism continues to burgeon worldwide, certain destinations inevitably experience overcrowding. Croatia, with its stunning coastline and rich cultural heritage, is no exception to this trend. Recently, a friend inquired whether Croatia remains a worthy travel destination amidst the throngs of visitors. My answer? A resounding yes! While Croatia has indeed evolved and become busier
Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours reaffirms its commitment to exceptional culinary adventures with the much-anticipated return of renowned chef Bryan Voltaggio. Set against the stunning backdrop of Iceland’s natural beauty, this bespoke cruise features an 11-day voyage, aptly titled “Circumnavigating Iceland & Crossing the Arctic Circle.” Slated for departure on July 15, 2025, this voyage
Alaska’s cruise tourism sector is navigating a complex terrain, characterized by diverging sentiments among different communities. On one end of the spectrum, certain ports exhibit hesitance towards the influx of cruise ships, citing concerns from local populations and environmental sustainability. Conversely, others embrace this economic opportunity fervently, showcasing a fundamental divide in how various regions