Virgin’s Resilient Lady Sets Sail to Australia

Virgin’s Resilient Lady Sets Sail to Australia

Virgin Voyage’s Resilient Lady recently started its three-part repositioning voyage to Australia and New Zealand.

Ahead of the company’s inaugural season in the region, the 2022-built vessel kicked off the first part of its journey on Oct. 22, in Piraeus, Greece.

Sailing to Dubai, UAE, the 14-night cruise marks Virgin’s Middle East debut and also includes visits to ports in Egypt and Greece.

Continuing on its way to Australia, the Resilient Lady then starts a 15-night cruise to Singapore on Nov. 5.

Bringing Virgin Voyages to India and Southeast Asia for the first time, the one-way itinerary features different ports of call in the region, such as Mumbai, Colombo, Phuket and Klang.

The final leg of the repositioning cruise starts in Singapore, on Nov. 20. Sailing to Sydney, the 15-night itinerary features a visit to Bali, in Indonesia, in addition to three ports of call in Australia: Darwin, Yorkeys Knob and Airlie Beach.

Starting on Dec. 5, the Resilient Lady is set to offer a series of two- to 15-night cruises to Australia and New Zealand.

Departing from Melbourne, Auckland and Sydney, the itineraries feature visits to ports in Tasmania, Queensland and New Zealand, such as Hobart, Burnie and Airlie Beach.

On Jan. 12, for instance, the 110,000-ton vessel sets sail from Auckland on an 11-night cruise to Melbourne.

In addition to three full days at sea, the complete itinerary features visits to Sydney, Tauranga, Napier, Wellington and Picton.

Built at the Fincantieri shipyard in Italy, the Resilient Lady entered service in May 2022. Following the Scarlet Lady and the Valiant Lady, the 2,770-guest ship became the third vessel in Virgin’s Ladyship series.

Among the ship’s facilities is a selection of various included dining venues and The Manor – a two-story 1970s-style nightclub inspired by Virgin’s heritage in the music business.

MSC Redeploys Orchestra to Western Mediterranean

MSC Redeploys Orchestra to Western Mediterranean

MSC Cruises has revealed a new winter itinerary for the MSC Orchestra, which will homeport in Valencia, marking the first time a ship will be based at the Spanish port during a winter season.

The cruise line said in a statement that the MSC Orchestra will operate weekly voyages between December 16, 2023, and April 19, 2024, from Valencia to  Cagliari, Sardinia; Civitavecchia for Rome, Livorno for Pisa and Florence, Italy; Marseille, France and Palma in Mallorca before returning to Valencia.

This ship’s new program is set to replace the Red Sea itineraries previously canceled due to the proximity of some of the ports of call to Israel as well as the restrictions in place in some bordering countries.

MSC Cruises added that the safety of its passengers and crew is always its priority and it will continue to monitor the situation and modify ship itineraries if necessary.

Carnival Corp Named One of the World’s Best Employers for Third Time

Carnival Corp Named One of the World’s Best Employers for Third Time

Carnival Corporation was named one of the World’s Best Employers for 2023 by Forbes for the third consecutive year.

Carnival Corporation was recognized among 700 international employers spanning more than 20 industries for cultivating a positive workplace environment, work-life balance, career advancement opportunities and employee diversity, according to a statement. 

Presented by Forbes and Statista, the World’s Best Employers list was determined via a survey that involved more than 170,000 employees from 55 countries working part-time or full-time. Participants were asked if they would recommend their employers to friends and family, and to anonymously rate their workplaces based on criteria such as image, economic footprint, talent development, gender equality and social responsibility.

Employees could also rate other companies in their industries and countries. Based on these factors, only the top 700 companies out of thousands of organizations were recognized as the World’s Best Employers by Forbes.

“Our highly talented global team of shipboard and shoreside employees are at the heart of everything we do and we want to make sure we are fostering an environment where people from all different backgrounds, experiences and walks of life can thrive,” said Bettina Deynes, global chief human resources officer for Carnival Corporation.

“As we continue to prioritize a positive company culture and drive initiatives to grow each of our team members’ careers, we are honored to be recognized once again by Forbes for our efforts and commitment to be the employer of choice for hospitality, travel and leisure careers.”

Carnival Corporation has over 160,000 employees, who represent 150 countries.

Carnival Magic Repositions to Miami

Carnival Magic Repositions to Miami

Carnival Magic in Palma, Majorca photo credit Spacejunkie2 (Flickr account)

The Carnival Magic arrived in Miami today to kick off a series of cruises to the Caribbean.

Sailing from its new year-round homeport in South Florida, the 3,650-guest vessel is set to offer a series of six- to eight-night itineraries to different destinations in the region.

The first cruise of the program includes six days cruising to the Eastern Caribbean, with planned visits to Half Moon Cay, in the Bahamas; Grand Turk, in Turks and Caicos; and Amber Cove, in the Dominican Republic.

Cruises to the Western Caribbean are also part of the program, including six-night itineraries to Mexico and Belize, and seven-night cruises to Mexico and Honduras.

The Carnival Magic is also set to cruise to the Southern Caribbean from Miami, offering eight-night itineraries that feature destinations in Aruba, Curaçao, and more.

Other ports of call included in the ship’s itineraries include St. Thomas, in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Philipsburg, in St. Maarten, Nassau, in the Bahamas, and more.

With the Carnival Magic now based in Miami as well, a total of five Carnival Cruise Line ships are sailing from the South Florida homeport on a year-round basis.

The Carnival Celebration, the Carnival Horizon, the Carnival Conquest and the Carnival Sunrise complete the company’s fleet in PortMiami.

Offering three- to eight-night cruises to the Bahamas and the Caribbean, the vessels sail to popular destinations in the region, such as Nassau, Princess Cays, George Town, La Romana, Puerto Rico and more.

A sister to the 2009-built Carnival Dream, the Carnival Magic originally entered service in 2011. Built in Italy by the Fincantieri shipyard, the vessel offers several facilities and attractions, including a large casino, a multi-level theater and an extensive array of dining venues.

The Magic also boasts innovative features, including an outdoors sports complex named Sports Square and The Lanai, a wrap-around promenade with whirlpools that extend out over the ship’s sides.

Royal Caribbean Reports Q3 Results, Increases Guidance

Royal Caribbean Reports Q3 Results, Increases Guidance

Royal Caribbean departing from Southampton, Photo credit Spacejunkie2 (Flickr account)

Royal Caribbean Group today reported third quarter Earnings per Share of $3.65 and Adjusted EPS of $3.85 for the third quarter of 2023.

These results were better than the company’s guidance due to stronger close-in demand and further strength in onboard revenue, the company said in a press release.

The company is also increasing its full year 2023 Adjusted EPS guidance to $6.58 – $6.63, driven by strong demand and continued strength in onboard revenue.

“The strength of our brands and the acceleration of consumer spending on experiences have propelled us towards another outstanding quarter and a robust 2023,” said Jason Liberty, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group. “Looking ahead, we see accelerating demand as we build the business for 2024. Our booked load factors are higher than all prior years and at higher rates, further supporting our trajectory towards the Trifecta goals,”  added Liberty.  “The combination of our leading brands, the best people, and the most innovative fleet and destinations, positions us exceptionally well to deliver on a lifetime of vacation experiences while creating long-term shareholder value.”

Third Quarter 2023 Results:

• Gross Margin Yields increased 19.1% As-Reported, and Net Yields increased 16.7% in Constant-Currency (16.9% As-Reported), both compared to the third quarter of 2019.
• Gross Cruise Costs per Available Passenger Cruise Day (“APCD”) increased 14.4% As-Reported, and Net Cruise Costs (“NCC”), excluding Fuel, per APCD increased 10.3% in Constant-Currency (10.1% As-Reported), both compared to the third quarter of 2019.
• Total revenues were $4.2 billion, Net Income was $1.0 billion or $3.65 per share, Adjusted Net Income was $1.1 billion or $3.85 per share, Adjusted EBITDA was $1.7 billion.

Full Year 2023 Outlook:

• Net Yields are expected to increase 12.9% to 13.4% in Constant-Currency (12.4% to 12.9% As-Reported), compared to 2019.
• NCC, excluding Fuel, per APCD is expected to be up 7.0% to 7.5% in Constant-Currency (6.5% to 7.0% As-Reported), compared to 2019, and includes approximately 30 basis points impact due primarily to reduced APCDs on cancelled Israel and related sailings.
• Fuel pricing and foreign exchange rates are negatively impacting EPS by $0.18, compared to prior guidance. In addition, impacted sailings related to Israel deployment is expected to impact the year by approximately $0.03.
• Adjusted EPS is expected to be in the range of $6.58 to $6.63 per share.

Third Quarter 2023

The company reported Net Income for the third quarter of $1.0 billion or $3.65 per share compared to Net Income of $33.0 million or $0.13 per share for the same period in the prior year. The company also reported Adjusted Net Income of $1.1 billion or $3.85 per share for the third quarter compared to Adjusted Net Income of $65.8 million or $0.26 per share for the same period in the prior year.

Gross Margin Yields increased 19.1% As-Reported, and Net Yields increased 16.7% in Constant-Currency (16.9% As-Reported) when compared to the third quarter of 2019. Third quarter revenue across North America and Europe itineraries exceeded expectations due to better close-in demand that translated into higher load factors and pricing, as well as continued strength in onboard revenue. Load factor for the third quarter was 110%.

Gross Cruise Costs per APCD increased 14.4% As-Reported, compared to 2019. NCC, excluding Fuel, per APCD increased 10.1% As-Reported and 10.3% in Constant-Currency, compared to 2019.   Lower operating expenses, as well as favorable timing, contributed to better-than-expected costs.

Revenue Environment and 2024 Outlook

Bookings remained strong throughout the third quarter, significantly exceeding 2019 levels.  Closer-in demand for 2023 sailings exceeded expectations, contributing to higher load factors at higher prices and higher onboard revenue for the third quarter.  Consumer spending onboard, as well as pre-cruise purchases, continue to significantly exceed 2019 levels driven by greater participation at higher prices. As of September 30, 2023, the Group’s customer deposit balance was at $5.0 billion.

Demand for 2024 has continued to accelerate, with bookings significantly and consistently outpacing 2019 levels. Booked load factors and rates are higher than all prior years while the booking window has continued to extend.  The market response to the company’s new ships, existing hardware, and the expansion of Perfect Day at CocoCay, and Hideaway Beach, has been excellent and further positions the company for strong yield and earnings growth in 2024.

Fourth Quarter 2023

Net Yields are expected to be up 16.2% to 16.7% in Constant-Currency and 15.0% to 15.5% As-Reported, both compared to the fourth quarter of 2019.  Continued strong demand for the company’s vacation experiences and strength in onboard revenue contributes to increased yield expectations for the fourth quarter.

NCC, excluding Fuel, per APCD for the quarter are expected to increase 3.9% to 4.4% in Constant-Currency and 3.3% to 3.8% As-Reported, both compared to the fourth quarter of 2019.

Fuel pricing and foreign exchange rates are negatively impacting EPS by $0.15, versus previous expectations.  Impacted sailings related to Israel deployment are negatively impacting the quarter by approximately $0.03.

Based on current fuel pricing, interest and currency exchange rates and the factors detailed above, the company expects fourth quarter Adjusted EPS to be $1.05 to $1.10 per share.

“The performance of our business continues to accelerate, driven by strong demand and excellent operational execution,” said Naftali Holtz, chief financial officer at Royal Caribbean Group. “Our formula of moderate yield growth, strong cost discipline, and moderate growth of our fleet delivers a strong financial profile and enhanced margins.”

Discovery Princess to Homeport in Sydney in 2025-26

Discovery Princess to Homeport in Sydney in 2025-26

Princess Cruises announced that the Discovery Princess will homeport in Sydney during the 2025-26 summer Australia season.

The Discovery Princess will be the cruise line’s biggest ship to ever homeport in Australia in its 50-year history of cruising down under. The ship will make its debut in Sydney in October 2025.

Princess Cruises’ President John Padgett said: “Nearly half a century has passed since Princess Cruises introduced the Pacific Princess ship to Sydney’s shores. In commemoration of this milestone, we are delighted to unveil the future deployment of the Discovery Princess today, further solidifying our belief in the Australian market. 

“We are confident that both our international and Australian guests will be excited about the spectacular experience aboard Discovery Princess as she sails from Sydney in late 2025.”

Padgett added the cruise line is thrilled to add the Discovery Princess to its Australian fleet for the 2025-26 summer season. The ship will join the Crown Princess and the Grand Princess as part of the summer program, which will be revealed in full next month including the longest World Cruise yet.

“Discovery Princess will continue to set new standards for premium cruising when she sails from Australia in the 2025-26 summer season. She’s an incredible ship with many wonderful features for our guests, from superb cuisine to world-class entertainment and facilities.”

Carnival Freedom Returns To Service With New Look

Carnival Freedom Returns To Service With New Look

Once again sporting an iconic winged funnel, the Carnival Freedom marked its return to service by welcoming guests onboard in Barcelona, Spain, for a 14-day transatlantic voyage to its homeport of Port Canaveral, Fla.

The ship underwent an extensive refurbishment that included the installation of the new funnel, the addition of the signature Carnival red, white and blue hull livery and other enhancements, the company said in a press release.

Earlier this month, the 2,980-guest ship entered its 16-day dry dock at the Navantia shipyard in Cadiz, Spain. The ship’s transformation is a milestone for the shipyard. While the yard’s team members have worked on other projects across the fleet, this is the first time they have designed and manufactured a Carnival funnel.

Among the other enhancements is a newly installed Heroes Tribute Bar, which is an expanding venue across the Carnival fleet and honors military veterans and active-duty service members. Carnival Freedom now also features a Dreams Studio, where guests can capture memories that become keepsakes from their cruise with the help of Carnival’s photography staff. Some of the other work includes an expansion to the ship’s casino, and renovations and upgrades across the ship’s staterooms and public areas.

Carnival Freedom’s two-week-long transatlantic Carnival Journeys cruise from Spain is offering guests an unforgettable journey that includes visits to Valencia, Malaga and Las Palmas, Spain as well as Bermuda. From Port Canaveral, the ship offers four- and five-day sailings to destinations in The Bahamas, such as Nassau and Princess Cays, as well as other Caribbean destinations, including Grand Turk. Many new itineraries were recently opened for the ship, and among them are sailings that feature Carnival’s upcoming exclusive destination, Celebration Key, as a port of call beginning in 2025.

Belfast Closes a Record 2023 Cruise Season

Belfast Closes a Record 2023 Cruise Season

Belfast just closed its record 2023 cruise season with the arrival of Fred Olsen Cruise Line’s  Borealis on Friday, October 20.

During the 2023 cruise season, Belfast welcomed a total of 158 calls, according to Cruise Belfast. This marks an 8 percent increase compared to the pre-pandemic record set in 2019.

The cruise season saw 57 ships from 32 different cruise lines dock in the port, carrying 320,000 passengers and crew. Among them were 14 ships that made their maiden calls to Belfast.

In addition, this year also marked the arrival of the 2 millionth cruise visitor to Belfast Harbour since 1996 when the first cruise ship arrived in Belfast. The milestone passenger arrived onboard the Norwegian Dawn in May this year.

Due to increased passenger numbers, Cruise Belfast estimates that over £20m was injected into the local economy through passenger spending.

Michael Robinson, port director of Belfast Harbour said: “After a couple of disrupted years due to the pandemic it’s clear that cruise tourism in Belfast is now in very good health. We continue to receive a lot of positive feedback from passengers, crew and cruise line management on the quality of Northern Ireland’s tourism offering and the service the industry provides.

 “Bookings for the 2024 cruise season are currently strong, with similar levels to this year’s record season, which is great news for the city and the industry. We look forward to another busy year welcoming visitors from around the world.”

Gerry Lennon, chief executive at Visit Belfast added: “Belfast as a gateway city to Northern Ireland, now takes its place among Europe’s most vibrant and captivating destinations, for leisure, business and cruise visitors.

“With the continued investment in the city’s infrastructure and iconic world-class attractions such as Titanic Belfast. Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, Titanic Distillery and Belfast’s cultural programming for 2024, we will ensure we have a range of new and exciting giant experiences to attract the growing cruise market. Cruise Tourism is a vital element of our tourism portfolio, and its impact is significant contributing to the visitor economy and bringing great vibrancy to the city region.”

 

Search off Ramsgate for man reported overboard from cruise ship

Search off Ramsgate for man reported overboard from cruise ship

A search is under way off the Kent coast after reports of a crew member falling overboard from a cruise ship.

The coastguard was alerted at about 09:00 BST on Sunday after the man disappeared from the German vessel AIDAperla off Ramsgate.

The HM Coastguard search and rescue helicopter was sent from Lydd alongside a fixed-wing aircraft.

The RNLI sent all-weather lifeboats from Ramsgate and Dover to join the search.

The AIDAperla was travelling from Hamburg in Germany to Las Palmas in the Canary Islands, the cruise company has confirmed.

A spokesman for AIDA Cruises said: "The captain and crew of AIDAperla immediately initiated all necessary rescue measures, in close co-ordination with the local authorities.

"The search on board confirmed that a male crew member is missing. The ship was immediately stopped and returned to the spot where the incident was believed to have taken part in the search."

Silversea Opens Pre-Sale on Winter 2025-26 Sailings

Silversea Opens Pre-Sale on Winter 

2025-26 Sailings

Silversea has opened an exclusive pre-sale on its winter 2025-26 winter season, with over 150 new sailings to more than 200 destinations.

Departing between September 2025 and April 2026, also include nine maiden calls and two new grand voyages.

 “Broadening the most diverse and immersive destination offering in ultra-luxury cruise travel, we are pleased to open this exclusive pre-sale on over 150 new voyages for winter 2025-26,” said Barbara Muckermann, president of Silversea. “We are continuing to innovate for our guests’ enjoyment. Complementing opportunities for deep travel to iconic destinations with new calls to remote shores, the varied range of experiences offered with our latest voyage collection is simply unmatched. Our well-traveled guests will find inspiration, self-enrichment, and memories that will last a lifetime as they journey to the ends of the earth in Silversea’s trademark level of comfort.”  

Highlights of Silversea’s winter 2025-26 voyage collection include:

• The 75-day Grand South Pacific Expedition 2025 sailing from August 20-November 2, 2025, from Fremantle (Perth) to Valparaiso;
• The 47-day Grand Australia 2025 voyage sailing roundtrip from Melbourne from October 14-November 30, 2025;
• 17 new voyages in Australia aboard the Silver Nova and Silver Moon:
• The brand’s first-ever circumnavigation of Australia onboard the Silver Nova;
• Maiden calls in Robe, on Australia’s Limestone Coast, and North Port, Marsden Point, in New Zealand;
• 38 expeditions to Antarctica onboard three ships;
• 43 sailings in the Caribbean and Central America
• 25 voyages aboard the Silver Origin in the Galapagos with two seven-day holiday sailings;
• Seven voyages to South America, including three scenic cruises to Antarctica aboard the Silver Whisper;
• Six voyages to Africa and the Indian Ocean, including safari opportunities in South Africa.

Liberty: ‘Incredible Effort’ for Rhapsody to Help Americans In Israel

Liberty: ‘Incredible Effort’ for Rhapsody to Help Americans In Israel

Jason Liberty, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, said it has been an incredible effort for the Rhapsody of the Seas to help evacuate Americans from Israel.

“I wanted to share with you that overnight [Sunday into Monday], Rhapsody of the Seas began partnering with the U.S. Department of State to help safely evacuate Americans from Israel,” he said, in a letter sent out internally on Monday morning at Miami-based Royal Caribbean.

“As you know, the ship had been sailing in the region and then canceled its sailings when the conflict emerged last weekend,” Liberty continued.

“Now, with enhanced safety precautions in place, our ship is providing free passage, including accommodation and food, for Americans in the region wishing to leave and find safer ground,” he said.

“This has truly been an incredible effort as our teams worked tirelessly over the past week to make this mission possible. My heartfelt gratitude goes out to all involved and especially to the ship’s officers and crew for their unwavering support of this call to serve others in the midst of unimaginable tragedy.”

TUI Cruises’ Eighth Newbuild Named Mein Schiff Relax

TUI Cruises’ Eighth Newbuild Named Mein Schiff Relax

The eighth ship in the Mein Schiff fleet, the first of the InTUItion class, will carry the name Mein Schiff Relax, according to a company statement.

“Communication on various platforms made it clear how important the name of this ship is for our guests. This ship is also something very special for us – it embodies the further development of everything that we have stood for almost ten years with the new ships in the Mein Schiff fleet,” said Wybcke Meier, CEO of TUI Cruises.

“That’s why we took our time and carefully considered the creation of the ship – along with all the great new opportunities for our guests. It is now clear to TUI Cruises that the new addition to the fleet can only have one name: Mein Schiff Relax. This is exactly what the first ship in the InTUItion class symbolizes – a completely new feel-good experience.”

The Mein Schiff Relax is set to offer the first cruises in the Mediterranean starting in March 2025.

 

MSC Euribia Makes Maiden Call to Southampton

MSC Euribia Makes Maiden Call to Southampton

The port of Southampton has welcomed the first call of MSC Euribia to the UK to start her winter sailings around Northern Europe.

The Friday arrival was celebrated by a traditional exchange of crests between the ship’s master Captain Christopher Pugh, who studied at the Warsash Maritime Academy in Southampton, and local authorities.

The ship will offer options to sail to Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium and France until April 2024.

Antonio Paradiso, Managing Director – UK & Ireland, MSC Cruises, said: “The arrival of MSC Euribia in the UK is an exciting moment, welcoming another ship in our fleet to the port of Southampton. After seeing the success of no-fly cruises on MSC Virtuosa, our newest flagship will give British travellers another chance to explore a variety of destinations through the convenience of a cruise.”

MSC Euribia is the second ship in MSC Cruises’ fleet to be powered by liquefied natural gas, the company said.

Steve Masters, Harbour Master, Port of Southampton, added: “We are very pleased to welcome MSC Cruises’ newest flagship vessel to Southampton as her home port and look forward to working with the MSC team during their winter sailings in Northern Europe. Having launched our Ready for Tomorrow Sustainability Strategy earlier this year, it is great that MSC Cruises shares our sustainability values by powering their new fleet with liquefied natural gas reducing greenhouse gas emissions.”

MOL to Launch New Cruise Brand, Mitsui Ocean Cruises

MOL to Launch New Cruise Brand, Mitsui Ocean Cruises

Seabourn Odyssey Photo credit Spacejunkie2 (Flickr photo account) 

MOL Group today announced the launch of a new cruise brand named Mitsui Ocean Cruises.

The Japanese shipowner also revealed that the name of its new cruise ship will be Mitsui Ocean Fuji.

Set to enter service for the new brand in December 2024, the 32,000-ton luxury vessel was acquired from Seabourn Cruise Line in March 2023.

According to a press release, the Mitsui Ocean Fuji will become MOL’s second passenger ship, sailing along the 1990-built Nippon Maru.

Onboard the new-to-the-company vessel, MOL said, passengers will be able to experience the combination of Japanese high quality “Omotenashi” service with a western-style luxury hardware.

Currently sailing as the Seabourn Odyssey, the all-suite vessel was originally designed to offer an international upscale cruising experience in regions such as the Caribbean and the Mediterranean.

Built in Italy by the Fincantieri shipyard, the 450-guest vessel first entered service in June 2009.

Mitsui Ocean Cruises also announced that the Mitsui Ocean Fuji will embark on an Around the World Cruise in April 2025.

Sailing roundtrip from Yokohama, the 100-day voyage will visit 24 yet-to-be-revealed ports of call around the globe.

As part of its new management plan named Blue Action 2035, the MOL Group plans to continues to invest in the cruise business as a way to offset commercial shipping volatilities.

Diversifying its portfolio, the Japanese company plans a “heavy focus” on the cruise industry, with the expansion of its travel businesses and the creation of an international customer’s base.

With plans to launch several new cruise ships in the future, the group will also focus on bringing foreign guests for cruises in Japan, while keeping an eye on expanding its domestic customer reach.

According to MOL, the cruise industry is a “stable and profitable” segment that “is not affected by the same market conditions” as other shipping areas.

 

Explora Journeys Celebrates Explora I’s Naming Ceremony

Explora Journeys Celebrates Explora I’s Naming Ceremony

MSC Group’s Explora Journeys today celebrated the naming ceremony of the Explora I in New York City, the company said in a prepared statement.

The event included the maritime tradition of cutting a ribbon to break a bottle of champagne on the ship’s bow, officially naming it and bringing good luck.

Taking place at the Manhattan Cruise Terminal, the christening ceremony was conducted by Explora I’s Godmother, Dr Sylvia Earle, a renowned marine biologist and oceanographer.

According to Explora, the event was also attended by guests from around the world, international journalists, key travel partners of Explora Journeys and senior representatives from MSC Group, who enjoyed a gala dinner following the ceremonial launch and an evening of vibrant celebrations.

“In the world of luxury travel, the Explora I is a game-changer. We are offering journeys that redefine the very essence of luxurious ocean travel,” said Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman, Cruise Division, MSC Group.

“We are looking to attract a wider group of discerning travelers who have experienced the finest luxury land-based resorts but seek more value, more authenticity, and a deeper connection to the world. Explora Journeys is the answer by giving you a way to discover off the beaten track destinations by sea, all whilst enjoying some of the best real estate in the world,” he added, highlighting the further five ships that are joining the fleet in the next five years.

Explora 1 photo credit Spacejunkie2 (Flickr Account)

“Today’s event is a significant milestone for Explora Journeys as our first ship, the Explora I, brings to life our vision to reshape luxury travel. We are proud to introduce a new era of discovery and luxurious travel and to showcase our first ship in the vibrant city of New York,” said Michael Ungerer, CEO, Explora Journeys.

“I am honored to be the Godmother for Explora I and look forward to a meaningful relationship between Mission Blue, Explora Journeys and the MSC Foundation towards making a very positive contribution to protect and restore the world’s seas and oceans,” Dr Sylvia Earle, Founder and Chairman, Mission Blue.

The Explora I, the first of six luxury ships constructed by Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri, began sailing in July this year with a series of journeys in Northern Europe before crossing the Atlantic to New York with visits to Iceland, Greenland and Canada.

The ship has 461 oceanfront suites, penthouses and residences, six restaurants, 12 indoor and outdoor bars and lounges, four swimming pools, extensive outdoor decks with private cabanas and nearly 1,000 square meters of wellness and fitness facilities.

Norwegian Cruise Line to Recategorize Spa Cabins

Norwegian Cruise Line to Recategorize Spa Cabins

According to a statement sent to booked guests and obtained by Cruise Industry News, Norwegian Cruise Line is recategorizing the spa category cabins onboard its ships.

“We are committed to providing the best vacation at sea and work tirelessly to continue to elevate the quality of our offerings and overall guest experience,” the company said.

“In an effort to provide more availability and access to NCL’s Mandara Spa and Salon’s Thermal Suite, Spa Suites in the Haven by Norwegian, Spa Club Balcony, and Spa Balcony Staterooms have been recategorized to traditional Suites, Club Balcony and Balcony Staterooms,” Norwegian Cruise Line continued.

With the change, additional capacity at the Thermal Suite will be offered to all stateroom categories onboard, the company added.

The reclassification of the Spa Staterooms will begin for sailings after January 1, 2024.

In addition to maintaining their access to the Thermal Suite, guests who booked one of the impacted cabins prior to October 2, 2023, will see their reservations updated to reflect the change, the company said.

In related news, Norwegian Cruise Line also announced the introduction of over 1,000 new solo cabins across its 19-ship fleet.

Opening for bookings this week, the staterooms will be available for sailings starting on January 2, 2024, and include three different solo categories: Solo Inside, Solo Oceanview and Solo Balcony.

With pricing and availability dependent on the destination and demand, solo travellers can expect to pay less than a traditional double occupancy room, the company said.

Guests who stay in the new solo stateroom categories will also have access to the key card entry only Studio Lounge, which is available on selected ships.

According to Norwegian, the venue offers a dedicated space to relax, a bar equipped with beer and wine and a variety of snacks served daily.

P&O makes a play for the School half-terms to capture the Family Market.

P&O Britannia sitting pretty in the Caribbean photo credit Spacejunkie2 (Flickr account)

P&O Cruises has bolstered its autumn half-term offering for 2025 in an effort to entice more families onboard its ships. 

The line will operate three seven-night ex-Southampton sailings specifically aimed at families whose children go to schools in different countries within the UK.

 

The voyages depart on 18 October, 25 October and 1 November 2025. Each sailing covers a different October half-term either in Scotland, Northern Ireland or England. 

A P&O Cruises spokesperson said: “Consequently, there will be a much larger number of holidays departing during this period.”

P&O Cruises sales director Ruth Venn said: “We’ve tried to put three consecutive sailings to cover each of three half terms. It’s great to have broad appeal.” 

 

P&O Cruises will return to 12 ports, including Los Angeles, Melbourne, Bali, Bodo and Dunedin, for the first time in five or more years during 2025/26. 

 

The programme also features two new itineraries for Britannia. Prices for the sailings, which include calls to Jamaica, Turks and Caicos and Dominican Republic, start from £1,399pp.

From January 2026, Arcadia will operate a 100-night Eastern Circumnavigation World Cruise for the first time in nine years. 

The ship will call into 28 destinations including Dubai, Singapore, Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney, Dunedin, Auckland, San Francisco and Los Angeles. Prices start from £9,599pp. 

The line will visit Tangier, Morocco, for the first time when Azura calls there during its sailing from Valetta, Malta. 

Cruises booked by 4 December will include a 10% saving. Past guests, who have cruised with P&O Cruises for 15 nights or more, can access a further 5% discount on selected sailings. 

Next Royal Caribbean Ship Named Star of the Seas

The second Icon-class ship will carry the name Star of the Seas for Royal Caribbean International when it debuts in the summer of 2025.

“The idea of combining the best of every type of vacation into one ultimate adventure has created more excitement than ever anticipated, and Star of the Seas will be the next bold answer to the record-breaking consumer demand we’ve seen for nearly a year and counting with Icon of the Seas,” said Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International.

The first look at Icon and Icon Class set the tone in October 2022 when it led to the cruise line’s single largest booking day and highest volume booking week in the brand’s then 53-year history, the company said in a press release.

The demand sparked Royal Caribbean to release 2025-26 cruises on Icon three months ahead of schedule and now Star’s name and debut season. Royal Caribbean said more details on the ship’s features and deployment will follow soon.

 

Cunard Reveals Queen Anne’s Wellness Offering

Cunard Reveals Queen Anne’s Wellness Offering

Cunard has revealed a glimpse of the wellness offering onboard its upcoming ship, the Queen Anne.

Cunard invited a group of travel agent partners for an exclusive, behind-the-scenes tour of the ship which is currently under construction at the Fincantieri Marghera shipyard in Venice. The tour was hosted by Captain Inger Thorhauge, who will be at the helm for Queen Anne’s inaugural sailing from Southampton to Lisbon on May 3, 2024.

The Queen Anne will introduce a selection of fitness, beauty, thermal and spa facilities with its reimagined Mareel Wellness & Beauty concept. From cryotherapy treatments to a Himalayan salt sauna and cold room, guests will be able to enjoy a range of crafted experiences designed for the body and soul.

The ship’s wellness spaces include The Pavilion, located on the top deck with a glass dome roof that retracts in warmer areas. The multi-purpose space will encompass the top deck Wellness Studio, which will be open from sunrise to sunset, as well as the Wellness Café, where guests can enjoy seasonal dishes.

The Queen Anne’s Wellness Club will also boast a tailormade program for solo travellers, where, on embarkation night, they can relax and unwind together at a meet-and-greet.

Katie McAlister, president of Cunard, said: “For more than 180 years, Cunard has constantly refined the definitive experience of luxury ocean travel and I am incredibly excited that we are now just six months away from beginning the next chapter of our remarkable story. It is both incredible and inspiring to see the progress that has been made by the craftsman, engineers, and workforce here at Fincantieri shipyard and as we start to see Queen Anne’s interiors take shape, we can all see what a truly magnificent Queen she will become. I know that guests around the world are looking forward to sailing with our new Queen and we are counting down the days until we can welcome them aboard.”

 

Celebrity Ascent Completes Sea Trials

Celebrity Ascent Completes Sea Trials

The Celebrity Ascent has successfully completed its sea trials, according to a statement from the company.

The ship’s captains, brothers Demetrios and Tasos Kafetzis oversaw the tests conducted in the Bay of Biscay near the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in St. Nazaire, France, where the Celebrity Ascent has been under construction.

Sailing from Ft. Lauderdale’s Port Everglades, the Celebrity Ascent is offering a four-night Western Caribbean preview voyage on November 22, 2023, followed by a three-night Bahamas preview getaway on November 26, 2023.

A seven-night Eastern Caribbean maiden voyage will depart the South Florida port on December 3, 2023, kicking off the ship’s inaugural Caribbean season, featuring seven-night itineraries rotating between popular Eastern and Western Caribbean destinations such as the Bahamas, Mexico and Grand Cayman; and San Juan, Tortola and St. Kitts, respectively.

Then, the Celebrity Ascent will head to the Mediterranean for a 2024 summer season of sailings, including a nine-night Italian Riviera and France itinerary; and the 12-night Best of Greece and Italy itinerary.