Legend of the Seas Delivered to Royal Caribbean Ahead of July Debut

Legend of the Seas Delivered to Royal Caribbean Ahead of July Debut

Royal Caribbean has welcomed the Legend of the Seas, its third Icon-class ship, to its fleet.

Following nearly two years of construction at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Turku, Finland, and sea trials that started in April, the ship is ready to make its European debut in July 2026, the cruise line said in a statement.

More than 1,200 crew members and partners gathered for a ceremony led by Royal Caribbean Group Chairman and CEO Jason Liberty, Royal Caribbean President and CEO Michael Bayley, and Meyer Turku CEO Casimir Lindholm.

The event marked the transfer of ownership between Royal Caribbean and Meyer Turku.

“Today’s delivery of Legend of the Seas marks another important milestone in our ambition to continuously redefine the vacation experience. This new ship reflects the strength of the vacation ecosystem we are building – combining industry-leading ships, innovative technology, and exceptional experiences for our guests,” noted Liberty.

“It is an achievement only possible through the extraordinary partnership and expertise of Meyer Turku and the thousands of talented people whose creativity and commitment continue to help us design the future of vacations.”

The ship is scheduled to travel from Turku to Cadiz, Spain, soon, for finishing touches by Royal Caribbean.

After that, it will operate seven-night Western Mediterranean sailings from Barcelona, Spain, and Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy, this summer, as part of its inaugural season.

In November, the ship will arrive in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to deliver six-night Western Caribbean and eight-night Southern Caribbean cruises.

The delivery is part of the company’s long-term framework agreement with Meyer Turku, securing shipbuilding capacity through 2036.

Under it, the shipyard will build the Icon 5, to be delivered in 2028, as well as the sixth and seventh Icon Class ships, coming in 2029 and 2030, respectively.

“Legend of the Seas is the third Icon Class ship built at our shipyard, and constructing the series has enabled us to develop our production processes in a systematic way. We have built on the experience gained from the previous vessels and further improved efficiency with the customer and our extensive partner network,” added Lindholm.

“The ship is an exceptional project in terms of both scale and technical complexity, requiring strong expertise and seamless collaboration across the entire maritime cluster. At the same time, Legend of the Seas moves shipbuilding towards more energy-efficient and environmentally sustainable solutions.”

The Legend will be the company’s fourth ship powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG) as it continues on its journey toward introducing a net-zero cruise ship by 2035.

Royal Caribbean Adds Extra Port to Upcoming Cruise

Royal Caribbean Adds Extra Port to Upcoming Cruise

Royal Caribbean International is adding an extra port to the July 4, 2026, sailing onboard the Rhapsody of the Seas.

According to a statement sent to booked guests, the itinerary will now feature an additional visit to La Romana in the Dominican Republic.

Part of a seven-night cruise to the Southern and Eastern Caribbean from Puerto Rico, the new call replaces a day at sea.

“While planning our upcoming adventure, we want to make sure you are aware of a slight change to your itinerary,” Royal Caribbean told passengers.

The company said that the visit to La Romana was added as part of its routine review of upcoming cruise itineraries.

“From time to time, updates are necessary as we finalize scheduling port arrangements and operational details,” the company added.

Royal Caribbean added that the new call will enhance guests’ experience, giving them a full day to explore an additional port.

A selection of shore excursions for the new destination will be available for guests soon, the company noted.

“We’re sorry for any inconvenience this may cause and look forward to setting sail with you,” Royal Caribbean added.

In addition to the newly added visit to La Romana, Rhapsody’s July 4, 2026, itinerary sails to other destinations in the British Virgin Islands, St. Maarten, Antigua, St. Kitts and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Sailing roundtrip from San Juan, the Vision-class ship is scheduled to visit Tortola, Philipsburg, St. John’s, Basseterre and St. Croix.

The Rhapsody of the Seas is currently offering a series of seven-night cruises from Puerto Rico that sail to destinations in the Southern and Eastern Caribbean.

Extending through 2026 and early 2027, the deployment will be followed by the ship’s return to Europe, with a summer season in the Eastern Mediterranean.

Viking Yi Dun Departs Shanghai, Concludes Its Chinese-Flag Era

Viking Yi Dun Departs Shanghai, Concludes Its Chinese-Flag Era

The Viking Yi Dun slipped her moorings at Shanghai’s North Bund International Cruise Terminal on June 5, beginning a roughly 60-day positioning voyage across the South China Sea.

The ship will sail past Southeast Asia and the Indian Ocean, around the Cape of Good Hope and into the Mediterranean, with a scheduled arrival in Barcelona, Spain, in early August.

Viking said in a press release that the departure also marked the formal launch of what it has promoted as its first Chinese-language transcontinental itinerary, the “60-Day Afro-Euro-Asian Discovery Journey.”

At an onboard ceremony earlier in the day, Brendan Tansey, managing director of Viking China, said the voyage will cross the Pacific, Indian and Atlantic oceans, calling at 27 destinations across 16 countries including Singapore, Phuket, Sri Lanka, Seychelles, South Africa, Namibia and Morocco before reaching Tarragona.

Tansey added that the company is marking its 10th anniversary in the Chinese market and framed the sailing as a milestone: Viking’s first all-Chinese-service (long) ocean voyage, designed around a familiar, senior-focused onboard environment (Mandarin-speaking hotel team, Chinese menus and signage, as well as no casino), and the bridge to a regular Chinese-language Mediterranean season starting August 3 in Barcelona.

The departure also closes the book on the vessel’s time as China’s first “five-star-flag” oceangoing cruise ship.

Built as the Viking Sun and later acquired by the China Merchants and Viking joint venture, she was reflagged to the Chinese register and renamed the Zhao Shang Yi Dun.

In recent months, however, that joint venture structure unwound; the hull was repainted and the name formalized as the Viking Yi Dun, and the flag changed to Norwegian.

 

 

Four Seasons II Revealed with New Yacht Residential Suites

Four Seasons II Revealed with New Yacht Residential Suites

Four Seasons Yachts has introduced the Four Seasons II, which showcases a new caliber of accommodation through its Yacht Residential Suites. The ship will start sailing in 2028, debuting in April in the Eastern Mediterranean following its delivery from Fincantieri.

“Following an exceptional launch for this new venture, we are thoughtfully expanding our fleet in a way that continues to elevate the experience,” said Ben Trodd, CEO, Marc-Henry Cruise Holdings Ltd., joint owner/operator of Four Seasons Yachts.

“The Four Seasons II builds on this foundation, introducing new offerings on the water while deepening personalization and expanding access through the introduction of residential-scale suites,” added Trodd.

“Every detail has been considered to ensure guests feel an effortless sense of home, wherever they are sailing.”

The new yacht will feature 79 expansive suites, including a new collection of Yacht Residential Suites alongside a one-to-one guest-to-staff ratio.

“Four Seasons has always been defined by the quality of experience we create and the genuine care with which we deliver it,” said Alejandro Reynal, president and CEO of Four Seasons.

“Our first vessel has shown how naturally this extends to sea. With the Four Seasons II, we will continue to build on that foundation, creating experiences that feel deeply personal, thoughtfully designed, and unmistakably Four Seasons,” added Reynal.

Debuting in 2028, the Four Seasons II will mirror the intimate scale and design-forward philosophy of the first vessel, while introducing the new and expansive Yacht Residential Suites.

Designed for those seeking the ultimate in space, privacy and flexibility, the suites offer a residential-scale experience at sea, complete with open-concept living, private terraces and bespoke service tailored to each guest.

Ranging from two- to four-bedroom suites and positioned across the upper decks, the Yacht Residential Suites are ideal for extended stays, group travel and multi-generational journeys.

Features include integrated lifestyle kitchens and dining spaces, dedicated entertainment areas, and, in select suites, private splash pools, outdoor showers and wellness-focused amenities.

A dedicated concierge ensures every detail, from personalized dining to curated Shore and Sea Experiences, is arranged.

Voyages for the inaugural season are now open for booking.

P&O Cruises Unveils Onboard Spending Money and Low Deposit Promos

P&O Cruises Unveils Onboard Spending Money and Low Deposit Promos

P&O Cruises has unveiled two promos: extra onboard spending money and low deposits on select cruises.  

As part of the first deal, guests get up to £500 extra onboard spending money on selected Caribbean fly-cruise holidays departing between October 23, 2026, and March 18, 2028. 

The offer applies to more than 100 Select Price fly-cruise voyages, available to book June 4–17, 2026, the cruise line said in a press release. 

“Our Caribbean fly-cruises are a real favorite with our travel agent partners and this latest offer gives them even more to shout about,” said P&O Cruises associate vice president of sales and distribution, Ruth Venn. 

The low deposit of £49 per person is valid for applicable Select Price and Early Saver holidays of up to 13 nights and £99 per person for selected sailings between 14 and 23 nights. 

The offer applies to bookings made before June 30, 2026, and is valid for cruises departing between September 1, 2026, and March 30, 2028. 

“With up to £500 to spend onboard and low deposits there’s a strong value story for customers. Add in just how easy these holidays are, with everything taken care of from flights to luggage and it makes them a really strong sell for travel agents this season,” added Venn. 

Example itinerary: 

Eastern Caribbean Islands fly-cruise (November 12, 2027) 

This 14-night holiday onboard the Iona starts in in Bridgetown (Barbados), before calling into Basseterre (Saint Kitts & Nevis), Tortola (B.V.I.), St. Maarten, Fort de France (Martinique), with an overnight in Antigua, Castries (St. Lucia), Grenada, and ends in Barbados. 

Prices start from £2,649 per person based on two people sharing a balcony cabin with a deposit of £99pp and include a £500 onboard spending money for the cabin. 

Economy flights from London Gatwick, transfers in Barbados, children’s clubs, full board meals and entertainment are included in the price. 

The company also launched its “Summer Sizzle” campaign for travel agents who are members of the Shine Reward Club. 

Upon making a 2026 or 2027 Select Price booking June 1–30, 2026, agents can enter for a chance to win one of four £150 gift vouchers, with prize draws taking place throughout June.

Norwegian Shifts Viva to PortMiami, Cancels Puerto Rico Season

Norwegian Shifts Viva to PortMiami, Cancels Puerto Rico Season

Norwegian Cruise Line will redeploy the Norwegian Viva to PortMiami for the 2027-28 winter season, cancelling the Prima-class ship’s previously planned Southern Caribbean cruises from Puerto Rico.

In a notice sent to guests, Norwegian advised that all itineraries the Norwegian Viva was set to operate from San Juan between late 2027 and early 2028 have been cancelled. The 2023-built vessel will instead offer getaway cruises to the Bahamas, joining the remainder of the company’s PortMiami-based fleet.

“We are committed to providing exceptional vacation experiences, both aboard our ships and by taking our guests to some of the most coveted destinations in the world,” Norwegian stated.

“Although we try to maintain original itineraries as much as possible, modifications are occasionally made to optimize voyages due to changes in port availability,” the company continued.

Guests affected by the cancellation will receive a full refund within 30 business days, in addition to a ten percent Future Cruise Credit (FCC). Norwegian said the FCC is being offered as a token of appreciation for guests’ patience and can be used for sailings departing through 2027.

For those wishing to explore other options from San Juan, the company said it will offer similar alternatives onboard the Norwegian Prima, which will continue to operate round-trip itineraries through the Southern Caribbean.

“These itineraries include many of the same highly requested destinations, as well as the same convenient and accessible departure point you originally chose,” Norwegian said.

The company also noted that the Prima and the Viva are sister ships and offer the “same high-quality amenities and experiences.”

From PortMiami, the Norwegian Viva will sail getaway cruises to Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian’s private island in the Bahamas, which is currently undergoing a major enhancement project that includes the construction of a ship pier.

“At NCL’s premier destination, our guests will get to enjoy ‘The Great Life’ in a completely new way,” the company explained.

“These recent improvements include the Great Life Lagoon, a large pool area with two aquatic bars, as well as the Vibe Shore Club, an adults-only area,” Norwegian stated.

The company also highlighted its new Great Tides waterpark, which is scheduled to open on the private island this September. Norwegian said the attraction will feature 19 water slides, in addition to a dynamic river, water features and more.

“Everything was designed to make your shore stay just as memorable as your experience onboard,” the company added.

The Norwegian Viva had originally been scheduled to sail from San Juan every Sunday between November and April, joining the Norwegian Prima for seven-night cruises to destinations such as Aruba and Curaçao.

In addition to the Norwegian Viva, the Norwegian Aura, the Norwegian Luna, the Norwegian Jewel, the Norwegian Gem and the Norwegian Joy are scheduled to sail from PortMiami in 2027-28.

As the newest and largest ships in Norwegian’s fleet, the Aura and the Luna will offer weeklong voyages to the Western and Eastern Caribbean. The Jewel and the Gem will operate a series of theme charter cruises, in addition to longer ten- and 11-night itineraries to the Southern Caribbean and Central America.

Completing the company’s lineup in South Florida, the Joy will offer three- and four-night cruises to the Bahamas.

AIDA Ship to Enter Drydock with Passengers

AIDA Ship to Enter Drydock with Passengers

The AIDAmar is scheduled to enter drydock with passengers onboard as part of a special itinerary in Northern Europe.

According to the company’s website, the new 10-night itinerary allows guests to live a “shipyard experience,” with a visit to a facility in the Netherlands.

The unique cruise departs from the German port of Warnemünde on June 28, 2026, and visits destinations in the Baltic and the North Sea.

But the highlight is a 24-hour call to a shipyard in Rotterdam.

“This very special journey takes you not to the typical tourist terminals but directly into the vibrant, industrial heart of Europe’s largest seaport,” AIDA stated.

The company added that the visit to the historical shipyard in Rotterdam offers AIDA fans and seafaring enthusiasts a rare opportunity to accompany the AIDAmar during its drydock.

AIDA noted that passengers will enjoy a unique atmosphere onboard as the ship undergoes scheduled maintenance at the facility.

The Carnival brand also described the cruise as an “authentic maritime experience, far from the usual holiday routes.”

AIDA said it is currently studying the possibility of allowing guests to disembark the vessel during its drydock.

“As this is an active industrial site subject to strict security regulations, disembarking on foot across the shipyard grounds is strictly prohibited for safety reasons,” the company explained.

“Any possibilities for leaving the ship depend on the operational procedures on site and, if feasible, will only be carried out in an organized manner.”

In addition to the visit to the shipyard in Rotterdam, the cruise will also sail to Visby, Stockholm and Karlskrona.

The theme cruise will cater to soccer fans as well, with a series of activities designed to celebrate the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Part of AIDA’s Sphinx class, the AIDAmar was built at the Meyer Werft Shipyard in Germany and entered service in 2012.

The 71,000-ton vessel is scheduled to undergo a major refurbishment in November 2026 as part of the AIDA Evolution refit program.

Costa Cruises Marking Solar Eclipse with Special Med Voyage

Costa Cruises Marking Solar Eclipse with Special Med Voyage

Costa Cruises has unveiled a special itinerary centered around the solar eclipse that is returning to the Mediterranean in August after 20 years.

The cruise line said in a press release that there will be two departures for its eight-day Eclipse Cruise aboard the Costa Pacifica, one from Civitavecchia (Rome) on August 8 and the other from Savona on August 9.

“Experiencing a total solar eclipse from the path of totality at sea is truly an extraordinary event we’re thrilled to offer our guests,” said Priscilla Reyes, head of sales for Costa Cruises North America.

“Witnessing this awe-inspiring celestial event from the open water, surrounded by clear horizon views and the shared excitement of fellow travelers, transforms this natural phenomenon into a truly unforgettable moment.”

After visiting destinations such as St. Tropez, Palma and Valencia, the ship will reach the Balearic Sea on August 12, 2026.

At Costa’s eclipse-focused sea destination: “Balearic Sea – Solar Eclipse,” guests equipped with safety glasses will observe the phenomenon from the outer decks.

A subject-matter expert from the Astronomical Observatory of Genoa, Italy, will provide narration to make the experience complete.

The ship will then continue to Olbia and Aranci Gulf, before returning to Civitavecchia and Savona on August 15 and 16, respectively.

New Pier and Expanded Amenities Ready for Carnival at Half Moon Cay

New Pier and Expanded Amenities Ready for Carnival at Half Moon Cay

Carnival Cruise Line’s new pier as well as new amenities and upgrades to the existing ones at its exclusive destination, RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas, are now open.

“RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay’s natural beauty has always made it a favorite for our guests, and with the new pier, more ships can now easily access this incredible destination,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line.

“We’re excited that more guests than ever will be able to experience the stunning beachfront and turquoise waters.”

Thanks to the expansion, guests can enjoy new complimentary loungers and umbrellas, plus reservable cabanas and daybeds.

Furthermore, food and drink venues offering island-style meals, full buffets and beverages in shaded, beachfront settings have been added and upgraded.

These include Orchid Beach Grill, Hibiscus Beach Grill, Luna Tide Beach Bar, Stay Awhile Beach Shack and Lil’ Tiki Bar.

A scenic Papaya Pathway has been added as a walking route for those wishing to explore the destination on foot, while others can take advantage of a new tram service connecting all areas of the island.

The company added that the existing south side of the island is also being refreshed with new design elements and food and beverage venue upgrades.

The destination is part of the Paradise Collection by Carnival, a portfolio of exclusive cruise destinations across the Caribbean and The Bahamas, including the recently reimagined Isla Tropicale in Roatán, Honduras.

Cunard To Add 30 New Cabins to Queen Mary 2

Cunard To Add 30 New Cabins to Queen Mary 2

Deck plans published on Cunard’s website show that the company is planning to add 30 new staterooms to the Queen Mary 2.

Set to undergo a major refurbishment program in 2027, the 2004-built vessel will see the introduction of new suites and inside cabins.

Designed as the world’s first modern ocean liner, the Queen Mary 2 currently carries 2,620 passengers in double occupancy, and that will now increase by approximately 2.5 percent..

Most of the extra staterooms will be added to a section of Deck 13 that is being turned into a new accommodation area.

Currently housing a sun deck, the space will offer 18 Princess Grill Suites, as well as five inside staterooms.

On Deck 9, the current Concierge Lounge is being converted into four additional inside cabins, while a new Penthouse Suite is being added to Deck 8.

The premium accommodation takes over an area adjacent to the ship’s library, which is currently occupied by a book store.

Cunard is also replacing part of the Queen Mary 2’s Teens and Kids Zone on Deck 6 with four new inside staterooms.

Other changes to the vessel’s deck plan include the addition of a new sun deck on Deck 14, as well as the removal of the Boardwalk Café from Deck 12.

While no details of the refurbishment have officially been confirmed at press time, Cunard’s website confirms that the Queen Mary 2 will undergo enhancements ahead of next year’s summer season.

The 151,400-ton ship is expected to enter drydock in late March 2027 before welcoming guests back on May 9, 2027.

The cabin additions follow a recent trend in the cruise industry, which has seen  cruise lines adding significant numbers of new staterooms to their older ships.

As previously reported by Cruise Industry News, Royal Caribbean, Silversea, Norwegian, Holland America and Celestyal are among the brands that added capacity to vessels in drydock recently.

Storylines Secures $500M Guarantee; Second Shipyard, Refunds in Focus

Storylines Secures $500M Guarantee; Second Shipyard, Refunds in Focus

Storylines is nearing the completion of a restructuring and recapitalization process that has secured the company access to a $500 million cash-backed bank guarantee, according to CEO and Co-Founder Alister Punton who also addressed pending resident refunds in a video update and confirmed the company is working with a secondary shipyard as a future-proofing and geopolitical backup for its purpose-built vessel, the Narrative.

Launched in 2018, the company aims to offer a residence cruise ship concept onboard the Narrative, previously having switched from a business plan that called for the acquisition of a secondhand ship.

In 2022, the startup announced it had ordered the 1,250-passenger ship from the Brodosplit Shipyard in Croatia and had targeted a start up date of 2025.

In the company’s recent update, Punton said that, in addition to restructuring itself, Storylines is “fully focused on bringing funding together.”

He said that the company is working on recapitalizing as part of a go-shop notice that it has put out, as that the process took longer than anticipated.

“It took a whole lot more work than I anticipated, not only for myself but very much for the legal counsel who has been working around the clock to expedite that and get that done,” Punton said.

With work now in the final stages, the process is expected to be completed soon, he continued, noting that Storylines will then be able to move on to step two of its recapitalization plan.

“This consists of closing on the balance of the funding, which this new partner will be able to achieve for us.”

At their request, the investors will not be revealed until “all goes through,” Punton said, adding that the partnership has already given the company instant access to “some incredible networks and hospitality brands.”

He added that Storylines now has access to a $500 million cash-backed bank guarantee, noting that the company is working to secure a facility to monetize this guarantee.

“We have a couple of options looming over that for the moment, and we’ll keep you posted as that progresses,” Punton continued.

He also mentioned that the entire project is wrapped in insurance with one of the largest insurance groups in the world.

“That, combined with the refund guarantees provided by the shipyard, means we have all of the pieces of the puzzle together now,” Punton added.

“Thank you to those who have been very patient in all of this. That hasn’t gone unnoticed,” he added.

Punton also addressed client refunds, saying that he has limited time to answer repeated emails about the subject.

“For those waiting on refunds outside of the trust account, I just ask that you hold on a little bit longer,” he said, underlining that he was referring primarily to $10,000 refundable deposits.

These amounts will be released once the company goes through its restructuring process, which will either free up or bring more capital to it, he explained.

Passengers who are short on refunds from the mentioned trust account will be contacted by Storylines to start a process that will see the balances returned as well, Punton continued.

He also noted that, earlier this year, Storylines decided to remove all but the core operations and construction teams.

“They were being stood down, so we made the decision to preserve capital and also in preparation for this restructuring process,” he explained, adding that the company’s communications have been more sporadic as a result.

The company has also been working with the shipyard, having completed the hull design of the Narrative through tank testing in Holland.

“By all accounts it was a success; there were a few minor changes that we made, but nothing out of the ordinary that you wouldn’t normally expect,” Punton said.

Storylines is also working with a secondary yard as a future-proofing scenario and geopolitical backup, he added.

Refreshed Carnival Magic Resumes Miami Sailings

Refreshed Carnival Magic Resumes Miami Sailings

The Carnival Magic has returned from a 35-day drydock at the Grand Bahama Shipyard, Carnival Cruise Line said in a statement. 

The ship is now resuming sailing from Miami, offering cruises to destinations across the Caribbean and The Bahamas. 

As previously reported by Cruise Industry News, the ship entered drydock on April 19, 2026. 

Several spaces onboard have been updated, including the casino and arcade, paired with the addition of a new mini golf course. 

Additionally, retail areas across the gift shops and the Effy Jewelry boutique have been refreshed. 

The Cloud 9 Spa and fitness center have been renovated, as were the WaterWorks aqua park and pool decks. 

Finally, the Lido restaurant layout has been redesigned. 

This is also the second ship in Carnival’s fleet to showcase the cruise line’s new “From Sea to Shining Sea” bow crest. 

The first one to sport the new look was the Carnival Legend, which resumed service on May 20 following a 16-day drydock at the same shipyard.

Cunard Reveals Itinerary for America’s 250th Anniversary Cruise

Cunard Reveals Itinerary for America’s 250th Anniversary Cruise

Cunard has unveiled the itinerary for its cruise celebrating America’s 250th birthday in New York.

As previously reported, the Queen Mary 2 will join over 100 vessels passing through the New York Harbor as part of the Sail4th meetup of tall ships.

The cruise line said in a press release that this will be the largest ever flotilla of tall ships from around the world.

The seven-night cruise honoring the shared maritime history between the U.S. and the U.K., will start on July 3, 2026, and return to New York on July 10.

Days 1-2 are spent exploring New York, followed by Newport on day 3 (July 5) and a day at sea after that.

On days 5-6 (July 7-8) the ship sails to Halifax, where guests can visit the star-shaped fortress and the statue of Sir Samuel Cunard.

Day 7 (July 9) is spent at sea, followed by return to NYC on day 8.

Two special guest speakers will be onboard.

The first is Dr. Seth Gopin, a lecturer in Art History from Rutgers University, and the second is Bill Miller, also known as “Mr. Ocean Liner”, who has written over 100 books on the topic of passenger ships.

Costa Diadema Arrives in Northern Europe for Summer Season

Costa Diadema Arrives in Northern Europe for Summer Season

The Costa Diadema arrived in Northern Europe earlier this month to kick off a summer season in the region.

Having spent the past winter in South America, the Costa Cruises vessel started a series of seven-night cruises to the Norwegian Fjords on May 15, 2026.

Sailing from Kiel and Copenhagen, the weeklong cruises sail to destinations in Norway, Germany and Denmark.

Ports of call set to be visited as part of the deployment include Bergen, Stavanger, Flam, Alesund, Geiranger, Haugesund and Hellesylt.

The season runs through mid-September, when the Diadema is scheduled to reposition to the Western Mediterranean.

The ship initially offers short cruises to Italy, Spain and France before operating longer itineraries that also sail to destinations in Portugal, the United Kingdom and Morocco.

Following its fall schedule in the region, the 2014-built vessel embarks on a repositioning cruise back to South America in early November.

Before kicking off its summer season in Northern Europe, the ship also offered a trans-Atlantic crossing that departed from Santos, Brazil.

The 25-night repositioning voyage included visits to additional Brazilian destinations, along with ports in Cape Verde, Spain, Morocco, Portugal, France, England and Belgium.

Back in South America for the 2026-27 winter season, the Diadema is scheduled to offer cruises to Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay.

Following a series of short cruises from Santos and Itajaí in November, the 3,700-passenger ship kicks off regular cruises to Santos, Buenos Aires, Montevideo and Itajaí in December.

The seven-night itinerary, which allows guests to join the cruise in every port, will be offered through late March.

In addition to the Diadema, Costa is also deploying the Costa Serena in South America for the 2026-27 season, offering cruises from Buenos Aires and Rio de Janeiro.

MSC World America Completes First Year of Service

MSC World America Completes First Year of Service

The MSC World America recently completed its first year of service after entering service for MSC Cruises on April 12, 2025.

As part of the company’s World-class series, the vessel was built at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in St. Nazaire, France.

Along with its sister ship, the MSC World Europa, the 5,400-passenger ship debuted as the largest ship in MSC’s fleet.

With a series of tweaks aimed at the U.S. market, the MSC World America was designed for year-round service in the Caribbean.

After crossing the Atlantic with no guests onboard, the vessel made its official debut in Florida, following a christening ceremony at MSC’s new cruise terminal in PortMiami.

Actress Drew Barrymore served as the vessel’s godmother, cutting the ribbon that broke a celebratory bottle on the bow of the ship.

The MSC World America then kicked off a series of seven-night cruises to destinations in the Eastern Caribbean and the Bahamas.

For its maiden voyage, the LNG-powered ship sailed to Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic and San Juan in Puerto Rico, as well as MSC’s private island destination of Ocean Cay.

As it enters its second year of service, the MSC World America will continue to offer weeklong cruises from its homeport of Miami.

In 2026, the vessel’s schedule includes itineraries to both the Western and Eastern Caribbean, visiting a range of destinations, such as Cozumel in Mexico and Roatán in Honduras.

MSC is now getting ready to add two additional World Class ships to its fleet in the near future, including the MSC World Asia.

While its name pays homage to Asia, the 208,500-ton vessel is set to offer year-round cruises in the Western Mediterranean starting in December 2026.

In late 2027, the company is welcoming the MSC World Atlantic, which will sail from Port Canaveral to the Caribbean and the Bahamas.

Deutschland Starts Farewell Season for Phoenix Reisen

Deutschland Starts Farewell Season for Phoenix Reisen

The Deutschland recently sailed from Bremerhaven to kick off its farewell season for German cruise operator Phoenix Reisen.

After undergoing a drydock at the same port in April, the 1998-built vessel started the deployment on May 12, 2026.

The final season includes a series of eight cruises departing from three homeports: Bremerhaven, Cuxhaven and Kiel.

Visiting destinations in Northern Europe, Iceland, the Baltic, and the British Isles, the 520-passenger ship will operate eight- to 22-night cruises.

For the first cruise of the season, the Deutschland offers a 16-night voyage to the United Kingdom and Ireland.

The itinerary is highlighted by visits to 13 destinations, including Belfast, Edinburgh, Douglas, Dover and Portland.

Before ending its summer season for the German brand in early September, the ship also offers a three-week cruise to the Portuguese archipelagos of the Azores and Madeira.

The voyage features calls to Ponta Delgada and Funchal, as well as stops in lesser-visited destinations such as Praia da Vitória and Velas.

Sailing round trip from Cuxhaven, the cruise is also set to visit other destinations in Northern Europe, including Glengariff and Honfleur.

As previously reported by Cruise Industry News, Phoenix Reisen decided not to renew the charter contract of the Deutschland.

Sailing seasonally for the brand since 2015, the vessel will not return to the company’s fleet for the 2027 summer season.

In addition to the ship, the German brand operates the Artania, the Amera and the Amadea on a year-round basis.

After completing its farewell deployment for Phoenix Reisen, the Deutschland is set to be renamed World Odyssey before embarking on another season for Semester at Sea.

As part of the company’s educational cruising platform, the vessel offers two world cruises during the 2026-27 winter season. Further plans for the future of the 22,400-ton ship are still to be announced.

Crystal Grace to Feature Dedicated Crew Recreation Area

Crystal Grace to Feature Dedicated Crew Recreation Area

Crystal Cruises has unveiled a dedicated crew recreation area aboard the Crystal Grace, its newest ship coming in 2028.

Set on deck 12, the crew recreation area will include a crew gym featuring Technogym equipment, a sundries shop, bar, table seating area and lounge with a 98-inch television indoors. 

This will be complemented with sun loungers, a jacuzzi and shower area outside, according to a statement. 

“Our crew consistently delivers an exceptional level of service and care, and it was important to us that Crystal Grace reflects that same standard in return,” said Cristina Levis, CEO of Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group (AKTG). 

“This dedicated recreation space was created with real intention, a place for our team to unwind, recharge and feel supported after bringing the Crystal experience to life each day.” 

Measuring 1,582 square feet (147 square meters), the area can accommodate up to 100 crew members, with 74 dedicated seats in the indoor social spaces. 

In addition to this, two crew dining areas will be located on deck 3. 

The 650-passenger Crystal Grace is scheduled for delivery in May 2028.  

Her official debut on June 11, 2028, in Civitavecchia (Rome), will visit Sorrento, Igoumenitsa, Kotor, Split, Zadar and Trieste before continuing to Venice, after which a Mediterranean season will be launched.