The travel industry is navigating a complex landscape that has shifted significantly since the pandemic began to recede. This transition has incited a debate over whether the observed slowdown in travel growth should be interpreted as a normalization of the sector or simply a lull. The ongoing discussions at major industry gatherings, such as the
Cruise
In today’s cutthroat travel market, consumer loyalty programs have emerged not merely as a promotional strategy but as a critical business requirement. With industries from coffee shops to airlines employing various initiatives to keep consumers engaged, cruise lines are gradually recognizing the necessity of fostering customer loyalty. Experts, including Jeff Zotara, chief marketing officer at
The ferocity of Hurricane Milton has posed significant challenges to the cruise industry along Florida’s coastline, disrupting homeport schedules for several vessels. As ships are left stranded at sea, awaiting safe harbor, the ripple effects of closed ports are being felt throughout the maritime community. Not only are passengers left in uncertainty, but the operational
The SS United States, an emblem of mid-20th-century maritime engineering and a symbol of American innovation, stands at a critical juncture as plans are underway to turn the majestic ocean liner into an artificial reef. The ship, once revered for its speed and luxury, has become a silent witness to both its illustrious past and
Royal Caribbean International is set to enhance its portfolio of exclusive private destinations with the introduction of Perfect Day Mexico, anticipated to launch in 2027. Located in Mahahual, south of Cozumel in Quintana Roo, this new venture aims to offer guests an unparalleled experience reminiscent of the renowned Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas.
After a lengthy seven-month suspension due to escalating political unrest, Royal Caribbean International is set to resume operations at Labadee, its exclusive resort destination in Haiti. This development follows a series of violent incidents in the country, including attacks by gangs and deteriorating security conditions that prompted both U.S. and United Nations withdrawal from the
In an unexpected turn of events, Juneau’s residents have largely voted against a proposed measure aimed at restricting cruise ship operations on Saturdays and the Fourth of July. Preliminary voting results indicate that approximately 60% of participants opposed Proposition #2, a decision that holds significant implications for the local economy and tourism landscape. The proposal,
The travel industry, particularly the cruise sector, is notorious for its resilience and adaptability, qualities that come into sharp focus during extreme weather events. With the anticipated approach of Hurricane Milton, many cruise lines have proactively altered their Caribbean and Bermuda itineraries to ensure the safety of their passengers and crews. As the storm, projected
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
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
