The evolution of the cruising experience often relies on the ability of cruise lines to adapt to consumers’ desires. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has recognized this necessity, culminating in the launch of its new ‘More at Sea’ program that replaces the former ‘Free at Sea’ policy. Spearheaded by President David Herrera, this initiative aims to
Cruise
In the world of luxury travel, few names resonate as strongly as Carnival Corporation. As the largest cruise company globally, Carnival Corp. has achieved remarkable financial success in recent quarters. CEO Josh Weinstein has been vocal about the company’s achievements, describing a series of record-breaking performances that paint a picture of a cruise industry not
In a transformative move for the expedition cruise line HX, Steve Smotrys has been appointed as the managing director and senior vice president of commercial operations for the Americas. This fresh role, representing a pivotal step in HX’s strategic expansion plan, aims to solidify the brand’s presence in the competitive North American market. With a
On October 1, 2023, the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) initiated a strike that significantly disrupted operations across U.S. ports, extending from Maine to Texas. This move was primarily motivated by demands for higher wages and concerns over automation in dock operations. The ILA represents thousands of dockworkers responsible for the loading and unloading of cargo
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has embarked on an ambitious transformation, set to redefine the way guests experience cruising. By phasing out its Free at Sea and Free at Sea Plus offerings, the company introduces the More at Sea package, which promises to elevate the cruise experience through enhanced amenities and a commitment to providing superior
In a world where air travel can whisk us across the globe in mere hours, the experience of jet lag has become a common hurdle for frequent travelers. The sensation of having your internal clock disrupted, leaving you disoriented and fatigued, is all too real. For many, this struggle was epitomized during an unforgettable road
Dominica is on an invigorating path to transform its tourism landscape, actively pursuing a strategy that enhances its appeal as a premier Caribbean destination. The island welcomed over 339,000 tourists in 2023, marking a substantial increase of 37% from 2022. This surge in visitor numbers exemplifies Dominica’s potential as a booming travel hub, as it
Carnival Corporation has recently unveiled impressive results during its Q3 earnings call, emphasizing a significant uptick in both current bookings and future reservations. CEO Josh Weinstein shared that nearly 50% of the company’s cruise inventory for 2025 has already been sold, while the 2026 bookings have shown an “unprecedented start.” This positive trend cuts across
Breaking into the luxury cruise market can present both challenges and opportunities for travel advisors. One of the pivotal insights from Dondra Ritzenthaler, CEO of Azamara, hinges on understanding your existing clientele. It is essential to not only know your clients but to analyze their past travel habits. A crucial first step is identifying clients
As the cruise industry rebounds in the wake of the pandemic, the dynamics within the sector continue to transform. The recent appointment of Gebhard Rainer, previously the CEO of Sandals Resorts International, as the new leader of HX (the rebranded Hurtigruten Expeditions) offers a fascinating case study on leadership evolution in this unique niche of
The cruise industry stands at a pivotal juncture, especially within the niche of expedition cruising, which has garnered increasing attention from adventurous travelers. A significant player in this shift is HX (formerly Hurtigruten Expeditions), now helmed by Gebhard Rainer, who has ambitious plans for the future of the brand. Standing on the balcony of the
In an exciting development for travel enthusiasts and cruise aficionados alike, Pleasant Holidays has opened the doors to booking cruises for the 2024 season aboard the rejuvenated Victory Cruise Lines fleet. Following a tumultuous chapter that saw the collapse of American Queen Voyages, this revival comes as a welcome surprise, particularly given the rich history
As Hurricane Helene made headlines this week, its implications rippled through the Gulf of Mexico, casting a shadow on both land and maritime travel. The hurricane, which developed into a full-blown storm on Wednesday, has forced adjustments in various transportation schedules, particularly affecting cruise ship itineraries for vessels journeying along Florida’s coastline and beyond. This
Alaska’s cruise industry has experienced an unprecedented surge in popularity since the pandemic receded, captivating the interest of travelers eager to explore its breathtaking landscapes. This revival is primarily attributed to cruise lines investing heavily in modern, larger vessels equipped with numerous amenities that appeal to a broad audience. The desire for unique experiences has
Carnival Cruise Line is set to make waves with its newest private destination, Celebration Key, located on the stunning Grand Bahama Island. Slated to open in July, this tropical paradise promises a plethora of food and beverage options that cater to every palate. With more than 30 distinct outlets, ranging from full-service restaurants to food
As the Q3 earnings season approaches, the focus is squarely on the cruise industry, which has shown remarkable resilience in a fluctuating economic environment. Carnival Corp., as the first among the major players to release its earnings for the quarter ending August 31, has set a precedent that will be closely watched by investors and
The highly anticipated CruiseWorld event is set to take place in the Greater Fort Lauderdale area from November 6 to 8, 2023. Organized by the Northstar Travel Group and backed by Visit Lauderdale, this year’s gathering promises to offer travel advisors an engaging platform for networking, learning, and growth within the cruise and travel industries.
Virgin Voyages is poised to take a significant step in redefining cruise experiences with an extensive upgrade planned for its flagship vessel, the Scarlet Lady. Initially launched in 2021, this innovative cruise ship is scheduled for a drydock refurbishment from November 13 to 28, during which it will undergo remarkable enhancements to its suite offerings