Cruise

In the fast-paced world of travel agencies, efficiency is key. Any tool or technology that can streamline processes and save time is highly valued. One such advancement is the introduction of cruise booking engines, like MAST Travel Network’s Agent Connect, designed to make booking cruises more efficient for its members. With the cruise industry booming,

As temperatures start to rise and summertime approaches, the focus shifts to winter at the Port of Quebec. While the port typically welcomes cruise ships during the spring and fall seasons, a new development is set to change the game. Quebec City is gearing up to host its first-ever winter cruise in early 2025. This

When the reborn Crystal cruise line first began accepting bookings, luxury travel advisor Diego Riveron faced a tough challenge. Former customers who had lost money during the collapse of the previous Crystal Cruises harbored animosity towards the brand. Additionally, new clients were skeptical about booking trips on older vessels. However, after almost a year of

This past weekend marked the resumption of cruise operations in Baltimore as both Carnival Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean International set sail once again. Crews worked tirelessly to clear debris from the collapsed Francis Scott Key Bridge, which had blocked access to the port for quite some time. Royal Caribbean International was the first to

Disney Cruise Line’s development of Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point on the southern tip of Eleuthera required a significant amount of effort to protect the local wildlife and habitat. The relocation of coral, human-sized sponges, tracking birds’ behaviors, and identifying the hiding spots of crabs on land were just some of the challenges faced. By

The cruise industry is facing a turning point as local communities and environmental concerns push for more regulations on the number and size of cruise ships. Key West residents voted to limit cruise ships in 2020, citing concerns about water quality and coral reef preservation. However, these limits were quickly overturned by legislation signed by

Oceania Cruises has announced a change in plans for the debut of its newest ship, The Allura. Originally scheduled to set sail on its inaugural cruise on July 25, 2025, from Trieste, Italy, the date has been pushed up to July 18, 2025. This shift in schedule comes as a surprise to many, especially to

Carnival Cruise Line is set to debut a brand new private beach destination, Celebration Key, on Grand Bahama in July 2025. Among the exciting offerings at this $500 million development is Starfish Lagoon, a designated family area that promises a plethora of entertainment options for guests of all ages. From a sprawling beach to a

Four Seasons Yachts is setting a new standard in the luxury cruise industry by moving away from the traditional all-inclusive pricing model. Unlike other luxury cruise lines that include meals in their pricing, Four Seasons Yachts will charge guests a la carte for lunch, dinner, and alcoholic drinks. This departure from the norm reflects the

Margaritaville at Sea has recently announced that Savannah Buffett, the daughter of the legendary singer and songwriter Jimmy Buffett, has been named the godmother of the Margaritaville at Sea Islander. This exciting news comes as the Islander, formerly known as the Costa Atlantica, undergoes a refurbishment in preparation for its maiden voyage from Tampa on

The month of May brings with it a variety of holidays, from Mother’s Day to Memorial Day. However, there is another holiday that may not be as well-known to the general public but is highly celebrated within the travel industry: Travel Advisor Appreciation Day. This day serves as a reminder to stop and reflect on

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s latest addition, the Ilma, draws its design inspiration from a unique blend of Maltese mythology, coastlines, history, and native fauna. The name “Ilma,” which means “water” in Maltese, perfectly encapsulates the essence of this grand vessel. Unlike its predecessor, the Evrima, the Ilma boasts larger dimensions, measuring an impressive 790 feet

Dondra Ritzenthaler, stepping back into the cruise industry as the CEO of Azamara, is set on transforming the way travel advisors engage with the brand. Recognizing the pivotal role that travel advisors play in driving bookings, Ritzenthaler plans to revamp the commission structure, bonus incentives, and other perks to energize advisors and boost sales. With

Regent Seven Seas Cruises recently announced the addition of a Tuscany itinerary to its Immersive Overnight collection. This new itinerary will feature overnight stays in every port of call, allowing passengers to truly immerse themselves in the culture and beauty of each destination. The 12-night Sunset Over Tuscany itinerary aboard the Seven Seas Mariner will

Seabourn, a luxury cruise line, has recently made a significant decision to name the Wunambal Gaambera Traditional Owners as godparents of their expedition ship, Seabourn Pursuit. This bold move not only acknowledges the rich indigenous culture of Australia but also serves as a symbol of respect and stewardship towards the environment and the communities that

The cruise industry is experiencing a shift in booking trends that is reshaping the landscape of summer sailings. With cruisers facing limited availability and record-high inventory levels, the usual last-minute bookings are becoming a thing of the past. Industry insiders, such as cruise line executives and travel advisors, are witnessing a surge in demand that

In the wake of the Covid era, consumers have become increasingly comfortable with online shopping, a trend that has extended to the cruise industry. The ease and convenience of online sales and DIY bookings have contributed to a significant surge in direct sales during this pandemic era. As someone who has personally seen the influx

Disney Cruise Line has been recognized as a significant contributor to revenue and operating income growth within Disney’s Parks and Experiences business. CFO Hugh Johnston emphasized the “enormous” potential that the cruise business holds for the company in the long term. He highlighted the high guest satisfaction scores that Disney cruises consistently receive, pointing towards