Holland America Line’s Oosterdam has undergone a spectacular transformation during its recent two-week drydock in the Bahamas, unveiling a series of upgrades thoughtfully designed to enhance the onboard experience for couples and solo travelers alike. Among the most notable improvements is the introduction of a dedicated couple’s massage room within the Greenhouse Spa & Salon,
Cruise
In recent discussions surrounding the travel industry, particularly within the realm of cruising, an uncomfortable truth has emerged. While many consumers may express fondness for the idea of exploring the open seas, there exists a substantial faction that remains resolutely against the concept of cruising. A poignant remark from Charles “Bud” Darr, CEO of the
MSC Cruises understands that the American traveler has distinct preferences—a fact that has influenced the design of the MSC World America, the cruise line’s first vessel specifically for the U.S. market. With its inaugural voyage having launched from Miami, there are clear elements aimed at capturing the essence of American culture, all while articulating the
Silversea Cruises, known for its luxurious polar journeys, is set to redefine the travel landscape in Antarctica with its ambitious venture—The Cormorant at 55 South. This world-class hotel, located in Puerto Williams, Chile, is poised to elevate the pre-and post-cruise experience for adventurers seeking the splendor of Antarctica without compromising on comfort. This groundbreaking initiative
Tamarind, a cherished culinary destination aboard five Holland America Line ships, is stepping up its game with the introduction of over a dozen exciting new dishes. This pan-Asian gem is already making waves on the Rotterdam, and by June, diners aboard the Nieuw Statendam, Koningsdam, Eurodam, and Nieuw Amsterdam will join in the culinary celebration.
Windstar Cruises is set to redefine the immersive travel experience with its newest vessel, the Star Seeker, launching on December 28. This elegantly designed ship will be the first in the line’s newbuild series, marking a significant pivot toward modern luxury in aquatic travel. The anticipation surrounding Star Seeker is palpable, given its promise to
Silversea Cruises, renowned for its opulent voyages around the globe, is stepping into an unprecedented chapter with the announcement of its new hotel, The Cormorant at 55 South. Slated to open its doors in time for the 2025-26 Antarctica season, this venture aims to revolutionize how luxury travelers experience the breathtaking landscapes of the southern
In the ever-changing landscape of the cruise industry, recent discussions among executives reveal a cautious optimism despite palpable consumer uncertainty driven by economic fluctuations. Amidst the backdrop of the Seatrade Cruise Global conference in Miami Beach, industry leaders acknowledged the lingering anxiety that consumers are feeling, which poses a threat to travel plans. While recognizing
Rarely does a cruise ship’s gastronomic offerings take center stage in post-vacation discussions, but my experience aboard the Explora I shattered this norm. The hype surrounding Explora Journeys, a new line from the MSC Group that launched its inaugural vessel in August 2023, seemed to focus heavily on the luxury it promised. Yet, when fellow
The launch of the Norwegian Aqua brings forth a remarkable transformation in cruising, creating buzz among travelers and industry enthusiasts alike. As the third ship in Norwegian Cruise Line’s Prima class, it transcends the conventional categorization of mere “sister” vessels. Dubbed a “cousin ship,” the Aqua emerges not only as an extension of the existing
Embarking on a cruise is more than just a journey across the sea; it represents a unique blend of adventure, comfort, and connection with both nature and humanity. Over my tenure in the cruise industry, having experienced 29 different ships, I’ve cultivated a philosophy around what elevates a cruise from an ordinary vacation to a
Carnival Cruise Line is riding the crest of innovation and nostalgia with the announcement of its upcoming fourth and fifth Excel-class ships, aptly named Carnival Festivale and Carnival Tropicale. During an enthusiastic press briefing on the majestic Carnival Celebration, President Christine Duffy unveiled plans for these two vessels, signaling a thrilling new chapter for the
In the vibrant landscape of the Caribbean, the aftermath of a crisis is often colored more by perception than reality. When disaster strikes, whether natural or otherwise, the narrative spun by misinformation can be more damaging than the event itself. Travelers may shy away from whole islands based on erroneous reports, overlooking the fact that,
Setting sail from the vibrant PortMiami, Oceania Cruises is poised to redefine the cruise industry with its newest ship, the Allura, debuting in July. This vessel marks an exciting enhancement to the cruise line’s already impressive portfolio, combining luxurious travel with exquisite culinary experiences. According to Jason Montague, the Chief Luxury Officer at Norwegian Cruise
Holland America Line (HAL) is set to elevate the Caribbean cruising experience for travelers during the 2026-27 winter season. By introducing longer voyages that span nine days or more, HAL is not just expanding its itineraries; it’s reimagining the cruise adventure. Along with a promising lineup of seven- to 14-day cruises that navigate both the
The aviation landscape between Canada and the United States has reached a staggering low in advanced bookings, reflecting a decline of over 70% for the summer travel season, as highlighted by OAG, a leading aviation data company. The crux of the issue lies not merely in fluctuating travel habits but rather in a confluence of
Carnival Corporation, the titan of the cruise industry, has recently emerged as a focal point in financial discussions, particularly after announcing its quarterly earnings amidst a politically charged environment. CEO Josh Weinstein faced a barrage of questions regarding the company’s prospects following President Trump’s tariffs and the ensuing trade war that rattled global markets. While
Imagine trading your scenic view of sprawling mountains or sunlit coasts for a breathtaking panorama of an endless horizon, all while enjoying the luxurious comforts of home on a cruise liner. Crescent Seas is on a mission to redefine the concept of living at sea, a vision spearheaded by Russell W. Galbut, the former chairman