MSC Lists 5 Reasons to Choose its Winter 2026-27 Sailings

MSC Lists 5 Reasons to Choose its Winter 2026-27 Sailings

MSC Cruises has spotlighted its 2026-27 winter season, featuring 168 destinations across 72 countries.

In a press release, the company highlighted five reasons to pick its itineraries this winter:

1. MSC World Asia’s Inaugural Season

MSC Cruises’ newest ship, which recently embarked on sea trials, will set sail for her inaugural season from December 4, 2026, offering seven-night Mediterranean itineraries to Barcelona, Marseille, Genoa, Civitavecchia for Rome, Messina and Valletta.

Guests can look forward to more than 40 bars, lounges and restaurants, a new Pan-Asian street food concept, the longest dry slide at sea at 81.3 meters and The Harbour outdoor destination, among other things.

2. Iconic Mediterranean Destinations at a Slower Pace

Six ships will sail in the Mediterranean during winter, allowing guests to explore the region without crowds. These are the MSC World Asia, MSC Euribia, MSC Magnifica, MSC Sinfonia, MSC Lirica and MSC Orchestra

Seven-night sailings will be offered to Spain, France, Italy, Malta, Tunisia, Greece and Turkey, with highlights including Barcelona, Civitavecchia for Rome, Istanbul, Valletta and Piraeus for Athens.

Longer options include 10- to 12-night sailings on the MSC Lirica to Cyprus, Egypt, Croatia and Greece and 10-night sailings on the MSC Magnifica to Morocco and Spain, visiting destinations such as Pyramids of Giza, Dasoudi Beach and Krka National Park.

3. Holidays in Northern Europe

The MSC Preziosa will offer seven-night sailings to Northern Europe, calling at Hamburg, Rotterdam for Amsterdam, Cherbourg, Zeebrugge for Bruges and Brussels, Le Havre for Paris and Southampton for London.

The ship recently kicked off a new year-round deployment in the region, allowing guests to discover landmarks in London and Paris, Amsterdam’s canals, Bruges’ medieval streets and the festive atmosphere of Brussels and Hamburg’s Christmas markets.

4. Sunny Caribbean Winter

Guests looking to escape the cold can choose mini-getaways, seven-night adventures and extended sailings to the Caribbean and Antilles and visit destinations including Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, Mexico, Saint Lucia, Grand Turk Island and The Bahamas.

This season will mark the line’s first departures from La Romana in the Dominican Republic, and many itineraries also feature Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, MSC Cruises’ private island in The Bahamas.

Operating the itineraries will be nine ships: the MSC World America, MSC World Europa, MSC Grandiosa, MSC Meraviglia, MSC Opera, MSC Poesia, MSC Seascape, MSC Seaside and MSC Seashore.

5. Winter Sun in the Canary Islands

The MSC Fantasia will offer seven-night itineraries to the Canary Islands and Madeira, calling at Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Puerto del Rosario, Funchal, Arrecife and Las Palmas.

Guests can discover Lanzarote and La Palma’s volcanic landscapes, relax on Gran Canaria’s Maspalomas Beach, or explore Funchal, Madeira.

Captain Kate Resigns from Position at Four Seasons Yachts

Captain Kate Resigns from Position at Four Seasons Yachts

Captain Kate McCue is leaving Four Seasons Yachts to begin a new chapter in her career, according to a recent video update.

McCue said that her life has taken an unexpected turn, with her father undergoing major back surgery and the sudden loss of her mother.

“That was when I realized that I spent the majority of the last year away from home because I was working,” she explained.

“After 30 years at sea, delivering two new vessels, launching a new brand with a prototype vessel and sailing as captain for the last 11 years, I don’t think I have to prove anything to anyone,” McCue continued.

“I’ve made my parents proud, and I’ve made myself proud, so I made the decision to resign,” she added.

Captain Kate said this next chapter would prioritize family time while also giving her more freedom to pursue other things she loves.

McCue noted that she wants to take her father cruising and plans to board different types of vessels.

“I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who was on this journey and all the opportunities I’ve had,” she continued, noting that her captain’s license remains active.

“Sailing again is absolutely not off the table, but for now, many new adventures lie ahead, and this time, they’ll be surprises to me too.”

Before joining Four Seasons in 2025, Captain Kate spent 22 years serving onboard Royal Caribbean Group ships.

In 2015, she became the first American female to take the helm of a cruise ship, as captain of the Celebrity Summit.

More recently, McCue took part in the construction and launch of the Four Seasons I, which was built at the Fincantieri shipyard in Ancona, Italy.

The 180-passenger luxury vessel entered service earlier this year, beginning a maiden season in the Mediterranean.

TUI Cruises Starts Homeporting Season in Portugal

TUI Cruises Starts Homeporting Season in Portugal

The Mein Schiff 6 recently kicked off a series of cruises to Western Europe and Morocco departing from Leixões in Portugal.

Located near Porto, the homeport serves as the starting point for two seven-night itineraries that sail to other destinations in Portugal, in addition to ports in Spain, Morocco, the United Kingdom and France.

Heading north, one of the itineraries features visits to Vigo, La Coruña, Bilbao and Le Verdon before returning to Leixões.

The second weeklong cruise heads south and includes stops in Lisbon and Cádiz, as well as Tangier and Gibraltar.

Guests are also able to book a 14-night voyage that combines both itineraries into a single cruise that does not repeat ports of call.

The Mein Schiff 6 will continue to offer similar cruises departing from Portugal through early September, when it is scheduled to embark on a repositioning voyage to the Western Mediterranean.

Sailing from Leixões to Palma de Mallorca, the eight-night cruise sails to a mix of destinations in Spain, Portugal and Morocco.

Highlights of the open-jaw itinerary include visits to Lisbon, Cádiz and Tangier, in addition to Málaga and Barcelona.

After a short fall season in the Mediterranean, the 97,000-ton ship embarks on a 53-night repositioning voyage to Southeast Asia.

The three-part cruise starts with a seven-night cruise to the Canary Islands that sails from Palma de Mallorca.

The 2,500-passenger ship will then operate a 20-night voyage to Cape Town, visiting Morocco, Cape Verde, Namibia and South Africa.

Before arriving in Singapore in early December, the Mein Schiff 6 also offers a 25-night voyage to the Indian Ocean and Southeast Asia.

Departing from Cape Town, the cruise will sail to South Africa, Mauritius, Réunion, the Maldives, Sri Lanka and Malaysia.

As part of its 2026-27 winter season in Southeast Asia, the 2,534-passenger ship is set to offer a series of 13- to 15-night cruises to Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam and more.

Built at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland, the Mein Schiff 6 was delivered to TUI Cruises in May 2017.

Aurora Expeditions’ Biggest Year Yet: New Ship, New Markets

Aurora Expeditions’ Biggest Year Yet: New Ship, New Markets

Photo Credit Spacejunkie2-Flickr https://flic.kr/ps/GkiQt

Aurora Expeditions closed out 2025 as its biggest year ever and is building on that momentum as the company recently expanded to three ships with the new Douglas Mawson, according to an interview with Chief Marketing Officer Katie Malone featured in the 2026 Expedition Report by Cruise Industry News.

There is also a charter deal with Lindblad for Alaska and a Mediterranean deployment that puts the newest vessel somewhere most polar operators don’t go.

Aurora operates the Greg Mortimer, the Sylvia Earle, and the Douglas Mawson. All three ships are part of the SunStone Infinity-class series on long-term charter deals.

The Douglas Mawson maxes out at 130 passengers for expedition cruises; however, the ship can accommodate more guests on small-ship cruises in the Mediterranean and British Isles.

The Mediterranean deployment kicks off this year with itineraries focused on storytelling.

Each sailing features a “Master Storyteller” with historians, genealogists, art experts or cultural specialists, alongside Aurora’s expedition team. Guests also receive all-inclusive “Your Choice” excursions at each port.

It’s a test of whether Aurora’s expedition DNA translates to warm-water cruising.

The company bills it as “Vantage Explorations,” distinct from traditional expedition cruising but using the same ships and operational philosophy. Aurora acquired some assets from bankrupt Vantage in 2024.

Meanwhile, the company made headlines in December 2025 when Lindblad Expeditions announced it would charter the Greg Mortimer for Alaska cruises starting in 2027.

The deal will run for three years and covers the Northern Hemisphere summer season.

That’s one-third of Aurora’s fleet capacity gone for six months a year, but Malone said not to worry.

“The Greg Mortimer will be chartered for six months during the Northern Hemisphere summer in 2027 and 2028, with an option for 2029,” Malone said. “This forms part of our long-term fleet and growth strategy, designed to optimize seasonal deployment and align all our capacity with the demand that is out there.”

With the Greg Mortimer in Alaska with Lindblad, Aurora will operate Europe, Arctic and expedition programs using the Sylvia Earle and Douglas Mawson.

The Greg Mortimer continues operating in Antarctica and other geographies outside the charter window.

The Lindblad deal solves a deployment problem, too, as it maximizes utilization without Aurora needing to build its own Alaska sales infrastructure.

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.

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.

 

 

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.

Four Seasons I Kicks Off Maiden Mediterranean Voyage

Four Seasons I Kicks Off Maiden Mediterranean Voyage

The Four Seasons I, Four Seasons Yachts’ first vessel, starts its maiden voyage in the Mediterranean today, March 20.

For its inaugural season, Mediterranean itineraries aboard the Four Seasons I will be paired with what the company describes as iconic ports and off-the-beaten-path coastal discoveries.

The debut year will see 32 voyages across 52 sailings, reaching 130 destinations in over 30 countries and territories throughout the Mediterranean in summer and the Caribbean and Bahamas in winter, the company said in a statement.

“Today’s luxury traveler values time, trust, and authenticity above all. With the confidence our guests place in Four Seasons comes an equally high expectation for excellence,” said Ben Trodd, CEO, Marc-Henry Cruise Holdings Ltd., joint owner/operator of Four Seasons Yachts.

“At Four Seasons Yachts, we answer that call by combining our global standard for luxury hospitality with renowned maritime leadership, inviting our guests to explore the world from an entirely new vantage point.”

The company added that the maiden voyage coincides with the 65th anniversary of Four Seasons and the opening of its first hotel on the first day of spring in 1961.

Honoring this legacy, Four Seasons founder and chairman Isadore Sharp and his wife Rosalie Sharp have been named godparents of Four Seasons I.

Alejandro Reynal, president and CEO, Four Seasons, commented: “Four Seasons Yachts is a continuation of the pioneering ambition on which Four Seasons was built, and will reflect the same genuine care, service excellence, and exceptional moments we create for guests on land. We are proud to introduce a new expression of our brand at sea, opening an entirely new horizon for our guests.”

The ship was built by Fincantieri and delivered to Marc-Henry Cruise Holdings, the joint owner and operator of Four Seasons Yacht, in late February.

 

MSC Updating Yacht Club Restaurants Across Fantasia-Class Ships

MSC Updating Yacht Club Restaurants Across Fantasia-Class Ships

MSC Cruises announced upgrades to the MSC Yacht Club restaurants, part of the company’s “ship-within-a-ship” concept.

The company said in a press release that the refurbishment will be rolled out across its three Fantasia-class ships, set to undergo drydocks in December 2026, April 2027 and February 2028.

The restaurant onboard its fourth Fantasia-class ship, the MSC Splendida, has already been updated.

The new interior of the MSC Yacht Club restaurant features a modern layout with darker tones, soft textures and sophisticated lighting, the company explained.

Guests can choose from a variety of menus and have a dedicated 24/7 culinary staff as well as a sommelier on-hand, ensuring what MSC describes as an elevated dining experience.

Following her refurbishment at the Palumbo Malta Shipyard, the MSC Splendida began her winter sailings in the Mediterranean in early February.

Itineraries now available to book on the ship include:

Seven-night sailings from Barcelona (Spain) – February through May 2026

The voyages explore Marseille (France), Genoa, Naples, Palermo (Italy), and La Goulette for Tunis (Tunisia).

Seven-night sailings from Barcelona (Spain) – May through November 2026

The voyages visit Marseille (France), Livorno, Cagliari, Palermo (Italy), Valletta (Malta).

Eight-to-nine-night itineraries from Buenos Aires (Argentina) – November 2026 through March 2027

Destinations visited during the voyages include Rio de Janeiro, Ilhabela, Ilha Grande, Balneario Camboriu (Brazil), and Punta del Este (Uruguay).

Nine-night sailings from Trieste (Italy) – April through November 2027

These voyages include calls to destinations such as Split (Croatia), Piraeus (Greece), Kusadasi, Istanbul, (Turkey), Corfu (Greece), and Bari (Italy).

Additional enhancements to Fantasia class ships include a redesigned Future Cruise office onboard, where guests can plan and book their next cruise while on their current voyage.

Costa World Cruise Departs from Trieste on Deliziosa

Costa World Cruise Departs from Trieste on Deliziosa

Costa Cruises announced that its 142-day World Cruise sailing departed on Friday from Trieste (Italy) aboard the Costa Deliziosa. The sailing will conclude on April 11, 2026, in Trieste.

The company said in a press release that the sailing will offer guests its most extensive world cruise ever, featuring over four and a half months of sailing to discover 51 destinations in 33 countries. The voyage will cross five continents and three oceans.

In 142 days, the Costa Deliziosa will complete a circumnavigation of the globe, sailing westward. From Italy, the ship will cross the Mediterranean and Atlantic to the Caribbean, visiting France, Spain, Morocco and the Canary Islands before reaching Barbados.

After transiting the Panama Canal, the ship will explore the heart of Latin America, including Peru, Chile and Easter Island.

The itinerary continues across the vast Pacific Ocean to the Pitcairn Islands, French Polynesia, the Samoan Islands, Tonga, Fiji, Vanuatu and New Caledonia, as well as Australia.

From there, the route heads north to Papua New Guinea and Japan, including Tokyo, Kobe and Nagasaki, then onward to South Korea.

Sailing west again, guests will visit Taiwan, Hong Kong, Vietnam, Singapore and Malaysia.

The ship then sails to Sri Lanka, the Maldives and Mauritius, and then heads to Southern Africa.

Costa added that it will offer a rich program of land experiences, with over 200 shore excursions. Iconic highlights include Machu Picchu, Angkor Wat and Victoria Falls.

Guests will celebrate Christmas and New Year on the festively decorated ship, with dedicated shows and musical parties, and the ship will offer an international culinary offering created exclusively for the World Cruise.

Each week, Costa’s Michelin-starred chef partners will serve a signature dish. There will also be entertainment inspired by the cultures of visited countries, themed lectures and wellness spaces.

Costa will offer two world cruises departing in 2026: In October, the Costa Serena will depart from Tokyo to Buenos Aires for a 66-day world cruise across Asia, Oceania and South America.

In November, the Costa Deliziosa will return with an exclusive 139-day itinerary featuring destinations in North America, Hawaii and the private island of Half Moon Cay.

MSC Meraviglia to Sail from Southampton in 2027

MSC Meraviglia to Sail from Southampton in 2027

The MSC Meraviglia will sail from Southampton for the 2027 season, MSC Cruises announced in a press release.

According to the company, the 2017-built ship will arrive at the British port on May 18, 2027, kicking off a six-month deployment.

“We want to give our customers new experiences, so it’s wonderful that the MSC Meraviglia is sailing from the United Kingdom in Summer 2027,” said Antonio Paradiso, vice president of international sales at MSC Cruises.

Replacing the MSC Virtuosa, the Meraviglia will offer a series of six- to 14-night cruises to destinations in Northern Europe and the Norwegian Fjords.

The season also includes longer itineraries to the Mediterranean, which will feature visits to additional destinations, such as Ibiza in Spain, Tangier in Morocco and Gibraltar in the United Kingdom.

While the Meraviglia takes over the itineraries from Southampton, the MSC Virtuosa is set to operate a full season in the Western Mediterranean.

Paradiso said that the changes to the company’s deployment in the region follow guests’ feedback, noting that the two ships are part of the same class.

“We’re seeing strong demand from UK customers for Mediterranean cruises, so having the MSC Virtuosa there for Summer 2027 is a natural fit for us,” he added.

“We also offer great value Fly & Cruise prices with flights from many regional airports, so customers can relax knowing that flights, transfers and the cruise fare are all included in the price,” he continued.

Paradiso also highlighted the 2026-27 winter season in the United Kingdom, which will see the MSC Preziosa replacing the MSC Poesia.

“I’m delighted to have the MSC Preziosa back in the UK doing the longest season ever from Southampton,” he said.

The 2013-built ship is set to offer a series of seven-night cruises to England, France, Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands between October 2026 and April 2027.

Bookings for the new 2027 itineraries onboard the MSC Meraviglia and the MSC Virtuosa are set to open on Oct. 14, 2025.

Aroya Set For First Season in the Mediterranean

Aroya Cruises is ready to begin its inaugural season in the Eastern Mediterranean later this month.

The Aroya recently arrived at the company’s new homeport in Istanbul after embarking on a repositioning voyage from Jeddah.

The 3,400-guest ship is now set to undergo some routine maintenance before kicking off its inaugural cruise from the Galataport on June 28, 2025.

“We’re excited to be bringing Aroya to some of the Mediterranean’s most popular cruise destinations this summer,” said Dr. Joerg Rudolph, president of Aroya Cruises.

“Aroya Cruises first set sail just six months ago, and we’re incredibly proud of all we’ve achieved so far, with passenger numbers in the Red Sea exceeding expectations. We look forward to welcoming our valued guests aboard this season,” he added.

As part of its inaugural season in the region, the Aroya will offer a series of six- and seven-night cruises in the Eastern Mediterranean.

Extending through September, the season includes two itineraries to ports in Turkey, Greece and Egypt, such as Kas, Bodrum, Marmaris, Athens, Mykonos, Rhodes, Alexandria and Souda Bay.

According to Aroya, the product blends iconic destinations with its Arabian-inspired onboard experience.

“The move to the Mediterranean marks a strategic next chapter for Aroya Cruises as it expands its itineraries and brings a taste of Arabian culture and hospitality to Europe,” the company stated in a press release.

Aroya also celebrated the successful completion of its maiden season in the Red Sea, which started in December 2024.

Sailing from Jeddah, the company welcomed more than 70,000 guests onboard for sailings that visited Egypt, Jordan and the Saudi Red Sea private island of Jabal AlSabaya for Saba Beach.

Originally in service for Dream Cruises, the Aroya was acquired by the company in late 2023 and underwent a year-long refurbishment before launching service for its new owners.

Holland America: ’Free of Amusement Parks and 2,000 Extra Guests’

Holland America: ’Free of Amusement Parks and 2,000 Extra Guests’

In its new marketing campaign, Holland America Line is taking a unique approach to differentiation by highlighting the qualities it doesn’t possess.

The promotion plan is focused on the Caribbean and aims to highlight the company’s product, which is based on relaxed premium experiences onboard mid-sized cruise ships.

Launched earlier this month, the “Refreshingly Free” campaign was based on research and customer feedback, the company’s Chief Marketing Officer, Kacy Cole, explained.

“As we start to go to market and think about how we want to communicate to guests, we really discovered an opportunity,” she said during a press conference.

“We found that there are a lot of travelers who look at Caribbean cruising and don’t really want the amusement park-like experience,” she continued.

“They are looking for service, relaxation and cultural enrichment,” Cole added, noting a growing preference for cruise experiences that prioritize relaxation, personalized service and cultural enrichment over a high-energy environment.

“Guests also expressed some dissatisfaction with oversized ships, citing issues with overcrowding, long lines, etc.,” Cole added.

As a result, the new Holland America Line campaign is aimed at showing that the company’s vessels and product are “a real alternative for people to invest in and get excited about,” she explained.

“We really want to own differentiation. In putting this campaign together, we’re thinking about this idea of refreshingly free,” Cole continued.

She said that the Caribbean is dominated by short and weeklong cruises onboard large ships.

“That’s really not what we’re known for,” she added. “Holland America has been a trusted brand for more than 150 years, perfecting the art of leisurely travel. No water parks, no roller coasters, no amusement parks at sea.”

Mentioning the company’s “Savor the Journey” slogan, Cole said that the company offers an alternative to conventional Caribbean cruises with “experiences too good to hurry through.”

“That introduces ‘Refreshingly Free.’ It’s the idea that, from what you typically expect of the Caribbean, we are a little different.”

Calling the company’s ships mid-sized, Cole added that Holland America’s fleet carries an average of 50 percent fewer passengers than other ships in the Caribbean.

One of the materials developed by the company will highlight the fact that Holland America ships are “refreshingly free” of 2,000 additional people to spotlight the company’s 1:2 crew-to-guest ratio.

“We are really creating an experience in the Caribbean where you can unwind and be taken care of with our long tradition of genuine service,” Cole said.

The campaign is based on three main pillars, including the relaxed onboard experiences and the fleet’s smaller average size.

“Refreshingly Free” also focuses on Holland America’s culinary offerings with a pillar that highlights the company’s unique and fresh choices.

Cole called the company’s Fresh Fish and Destination Dining Programs “huge differentiators,” noting that Holland America developed options that celebrate the best ingredients and flavors of the region.

“The idea is really to connect the things that we aren’t and how that’s actually a really strong differentiator for Holland America and the Caribbean.”

MSC Grandiosa Completes Five Years in Service

MSC Grandiosa Completes Five Years in Service

The MSC Grandiosa recently completed five years of service for MSC Cruises after being delivered by the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard on Oct. 31, 2019.

Before embarking on its maiden season in the Western Mediterranean, the ship sailed to Germany for a christening ceremony in Hamburg.

MSC’s fleet godmother, Italian actress Sophia Loren, named the vessel during the event, which took place on Nov. 10, 2019.

After offering a repositioning cruise to Southern Europe, the MSC Grandiosa kicked off its maiden season in the Western Mediterranean in late November 2019.

The deployment included a series of seven-night winter cruises to Italy, Malta, Spain and France that featured visits to Genoa, Civitavecchia, Palermo, Valletta, Barcelona and Marseille.

During its five-year sailing career, the vessel has also cruised in Northern Europe, the Atlantic and South America.

After undergoing routine maintenance at the Palumbo shipyard in Malta, the MSC Grandiosa is currently offering a repositioning cruise ahead of its second season in South America.

Through early April, the vessel is scheduled to offer a series of seven-night cruises that sail between Brazilian ports.

Following a summer program in the Mediterranean, the Grandiosa repositions to Port Canaveral in late 2025.

Debuting in the U.S., the vessel will offer a series of seven- to 14-night cruises to the Caribbean departing from the Central Florida homeport.

The year-round deployment also features short cruises to the Bahamas that sail to Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, the company’s private island destination near Bimini.

Following the MSC Meraviglia and the MSC Bellissima, the MSC Grandiosa entered service as the third ship in MSC’s Meraviglia series.

Slightly larger than its predecessors, the 4,888-guest vessel is considered part of a sub-class known as Meraviglia Plus.

Other vessels with a similar design include the 2021-built MSC Virtuosa and the 2023-built MSC Euribia, which was further modified to become the first in the series powered by LNG.

MSC Cruises to Reduce Fleetwide Emissions by Up to 15%

MSC Cruises to Reduce Fleetwide Emissions by Up to 15%

MSC Magnifica is anchored in the Firth of Forth just under the Forth Railway Bridge for more Images of Magnifica follow the link.https://flic.kr/s/aHsm7BUfg3

MSC Cruises is set to reduce fleetwide emissions by up to 15 per cent in 2026 by implementing a new itinerary planning optimization tool, OptiCruise, according to a press release.

Developed in collaboration with OPTIMeasy, the new mathematical model reportedly analyzes various factors influencing the planning of MSC Cruises’ itineraries. The goal is to achieve maximum efficiency while maintaining or enhancing guest satisfaction, the company stated.

The MSC Bellissima was selected to test the prototype technology over 12 months while sailing between 17 ports in the Mediterranean Sea.

Michele Francioni, chief energy transition officer at MSC Cruises, said: “We have identified and developed this new technology to optimize the decision-making process of itinerary planning to further reduce emissions across our fleet from 2026.  

 “The OPTIMeasy team calculates that the average fuel savings made, and emissions reduced by using OptiCruise are in the range of 10-15 per cent which is a significant step forward in our ambition to achieve our net zero greenhouse gas emissions target by 2050 for our marine operations.” 

According to the company, voyage planning in the global cruise industry has traditionally focused on the appeal of ship destinations to potential holidaymakers.

OptiCruise aims to expand this approach by incorporating a range of factors that affect itinerary efficiency. These include the sequencing of port calls, departure and arrival times, a ship’s speed, destination attractiveness, shore excursions and operational costs such as fuel, port charges and food provisions.

The tool’s algorithms analyze this data to identify optimized itineraries that maintain guest appeal while enhancing energy efficiency.

MSC Cruises’ strategy to reach net zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050 for its marine operations centres on three key areas: ship and engine technology, operational efficiency and renewable fuels. OptiCruise falls under the operational efficiency category, aiming to enhance energy consumption through increased digitalization.

OptiCruise was developed under the European Union’s Project CHEK, which explores low-carbon shipping technologies and innovative designs.

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.

 

Costa Cruises Simplifies COVID-19 Protocols

Costa Cruises Simplifies COVID-19 Protocols

Costa Cruises is updating its COVID-19-related health protocols, making its vacations even more accessible, according to a press release.

Starting Oct. 8, new simple procedures will allow guests to enjoy onboard and shoreside activities without restrictions, the company said. 

The main changes concern the Mediterranean, the Caribbean and the United Arab Emirates, where fully vaccinated guests will no longer have to undergo pre-embarkation testing. In addition, in the Mediterranean and the Caribbean, unvaccinated guests with negative pre-embarkation antigen tests will also be able to embark.

In Mediterranean (excluding Greece) and the Caribbean cruises lasting less than 14 nights, guests who have completed the COVID-19 vaccination will be able to embark on the ships without having to undergo any more pre-embarkation tests.

Guests who have not been vaccinated or cured from COVID-19 will also be able to travel with Costa to these destinations, simply showing at the embarkation an official certification of the negative result of an antigenic swab (or also RT-PCR molecular swab, at the guest's choice) performed within 48 hours of embarkation time.

All cruises calling in Greece will continue to be available only to fully vaccinated, partially vaccinated and recovered guests, and who have undergone antigen testing with a negative result within 48 hours of embarkation.

On cruises visiting Morocco, guests without full vaccination will be required to take an additional RT-PCR molecular test on board 48 hours prior to entry into the country. As for Caribbean cruises, shore leave of unvaccinated guests in Barbados, St. Vincent and St. Marteen is permitted only with a negative result of an antigen test performed 24 or 48 hours prior to the ship's arrival. These tests, as well as those scheduled prior to entering Morocco, can be done onboard Costa ships at a special price.

Cruises in the UAE, Oman and Qatar are currently available only to fully vaccinated guests, but with no pre-embarkation testing required.

Around-the-World, transatlantic cruises, and generally all cruises longer than 14 nights, require guests to be fully vaccinated and take an antigen test with a negative result within 48 hours of embarkation time. In addition, mask use onboard will be mandatory in public areas during the first seven days of the cruise, while in other destinations (Mediterranean, Caribbean, UAE) mask use is simply recommended.

Norwegian Cancels Six Additional Viva Cruises

Norwegian Cruise Line is cancelling six additional cruises onboard the new Norwegian Viva, pushing the debut of the second Prima-Class vessel too late August.

Currently, under construction in Italy, the 142,500-ton ship’s inaugural cruise was originally scheduled for June.  

“Given the global supply chain constraints impacting industries worldwide, including the maritime industry, we must cancel Norwegian Viva’s sailings from July 3, 2023, through and including August 17, 2023,” Norwegian said in a statement sent to booked guests.

The cancelled departures included itineraries in Northern Europe and the Mediterranean – where the Norwegian Viva is set to spend most of its maiden season.

According to the company, the impacted passengers are being offered two different options.

At a 20 per cent discount on the voyage fare originally paid, they are able to sail a comparable itinerary onboard the Norwegian Getaway.

The new reservations for the cruises onboard the 2014-built ship will include an equivalent stateroom category, keeping all of the guest’s previously selected promotions. 

Those who opt to not transfer their cruise to the Getaway may also cancel the reservation and rebook at a later date, Norwegian said.

Guests choosing this option need to contact the cruise line, which will issue a full refund to the original form of payment.

Regardless of the option selected, all passengers are also receiving a 10 per cent discount on their next cruise.

According to the company, the offer can be combined with all available promotions at the time of the booking and must be used towards sailings from August 23, 2023, through December 3, 2024.

Previously, in June, Norwegian cancelled two cruises onboard the Norwegian Viva. At the time, the company also cited construction delays.

Second, in a series of six ships known as the Prima Class, the vessel will be a sister of the new Norwegian Prima – which is set to enter service in Iceland later this month.