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June 2026 ReviewJune 2026 Review
CLIA turned up the tempo with another smash-hit Southampton conference that attracted more than 800 delegates, while the month’s roll-call of new and improved ships was matched by a burst of new programmes for 2027.What’s New . . .In a double whammy, Royal Caribbean International welcomed third Icon-class ship Legend of the Seas ahead of its July debut, and started construction of its seventh Oasis-class giant. Explora Journeys’ Explora III, debuting in July, completed sea trials, while MSC Cruises highlighted standout attractions of its newest leviathan MSC World Asia including The Spiral @ Tree of Life, set to be the longest dry slide at sea.. . . and improvedSeabourn unveiled a more refined look for Seabourn Quest which underwent the most comprehensive interior update in the line’s history, while Virgin Voyages’ newly-imagined Valiant Lady sported refreshed spaces and a new Indian restaurant called Ariya. German line Hapag-Lloyd Cruises’ Hanseatic Spirit emerged with a fresh look after its first dry dock. Ringing in the changes is Marella Cruises’ Marella Discovery 2 which is going adult-only for winter 2027 with former kids’ areas transformed into four adult attractions including a speakeasy and escape room.Rollin’ down the riversTravelmarvel welcomed newest addition Rigel which joins sister ships Polaris, Capella and Vega on the Rhine, Main and Danube, while AmaWaterways revealed a first peek at its second double-width ship AmaRudi, named after co-founder Rudi Schreiner and launching next spring. This summer, the line has extended cruise-and-rail options on European sailings, while CroisiEurope is bolstering autumn voyages with a new November Cruise Escapes collection. TUI River Cruises unveiled its biggest-ever winter season with more capacity on the Rhine and Douro plus new Belgian ports. It’s also dialling up the fun factor this November with an 80s-themed Rhine cruise on TUI Skyla with veteran DJ Gary Davies.Get ready for 2027A five-day expedition through Laos and Vietnam and two-night Bora Bora escape are some of Azamara Cruises’ 18 new overland experiences for 2027, while Oceania Cruises is turning the spotlight on Northern Europe with its programme of voyages aboard Oceania Marina, Oceania Insignia and Oceania Vista. Explora Journeys is marking its Alaska debut on Explora III next summer with a rich variety of destination experiences, while Fred Olsen Cruise Lines’ autumn/winter programme features 20 departures from October to December next year, including a Mediterranean fly-cruise series on Balmoral. Holland America Line opened bookings for flagship Rotterdam’s Mediterranean debut in autumn 2027 as the line builds its presence in the region during the low season.Partying and pamperingCruisers can have themselves a hoedown on Marella Cruises’ two adult-only country music themed voyages, Country Rhythms on Marella Explorer in November 2027, or enjoy a bellyful of laughs on Virgin Voyages’ UK Comedy Fest in August aboard Valiant Lady, with comics including Seann Walsh, Lucy Beaumont and Milton Jones. Hapag-Lloyd Cruises unveiled music-themed sailings for 2026/7 and the return of its 20s-themed Gatsby Nights at Sea aboard Europa. Regent Seven Seas Cruises announced its first-ever wellness voyage aboard new ship Seven Seas Prestige in 2027 as part of its Spotlight Collection. MSC has expanded its wellness offering fleetwide with new spa and beauty experiences, and Silversea is enhancing Silver Spirit’s wellness credentials with an AI fitness system and superyacht-style golf simulator. 29 June, 2026 -
May 2026 ReviewMay 2026 Review
It was hot stuff as temperatures soared and the industry welcomed new river ships and a procession of refreshed ocean vessels with sparkling debut features. Alaska proved to be the cool new kid on the block, while the launch of 2028 programmes gathered pace.River headlinesAs Saga Cruises unveiled details of fourth river ship, Spirit of the Lorelei, which launches on the Rhine and Danube in 2027, two more lines welcomed new arrivals. VIVA Cruises christened VIVA BEYOND in Paris ahead of its maiden season on the Seine, followed by Amadeus River Cruises naming AMADEUS Aurea in Amsterdam ahead of its Rhine and Danube debut. May 1 was a banner date for French line CroisEurope which celebrated its 50th anniversary, while Uniworld unveiled its 2026/7 Ultimate Journey Collection, bringing together its full range of products for the first time.As good as newHolland America Line’s Rotterdam returned from dry dock with enhancements to Vista Suites and entertainment areas. Bookings also opened for sister ship Oosterdam’s December 2027 debut after being the first HAL ship to be revamped as part of the line’s Evolution upgrade. Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Seven Seas Voyager emerged from a revamp with refreshed suites and new public spaces including its debut Epicurean Enrichment Studio, while Silversea’s Silver Spirit gained a new lifestyle-led poolside concept called Riviera and the line’s SALT programme. Crystal’s Crystal Serenity is to get a new pool bar, plus upgraded guests suites and public areas during a drydock this October.Alaska’s getting hotAmerica’s Last Frontier is getting ever more popular and this summer marks notable debuts with Virgin Voyages’ first visit to the region as Brilliant Lady departed from Seattle with its own resident lumberjack and Alaskan cultural heritage expert on selected voyages. Also making its first appearance in the Pacific Northwest is Princess Cruises’ newest ship Star Princess and Windstar Cruises’ latest fleet member, Star Seeker. Seabourn mega-yacht Seabourn Encore kicked off its Alaskan debut with itineraries between Vancouver and Juneau.2028 looms largeAzamara Cruises promised deeper destination discovery for 2028 with more than 360 late nights and overnights, plus its first full Asia season. Cunard unveiled 190 voyages from April 2028 to January 2029, including its landmark Four Queens Celebration in Liverpool in May 2028 and 40-night four Queens voyage. HAL confirmed full-year cruising in Europe with an extended 2027/28 winter season aboard Nieuw Statendam, and also put two 2028 Grand Voyages on sale: a 129-day circumnavigation and 90-day Grand Australia and New Zealand sailing. RSSC released its 2028/29 Voyage Collection which marks Seven Seas Prestige’s Canada and New England debut.For something a little differentHX Expeditions is turning the clock back aboard the hybrid-powered MS Fridtjof Nansen with a themed 1896 cabin. Described as an immersive overnight experience, it takes guests back to the era of early exploration at sea with bunk beds, wooden furniture, feature fireplace and vintage maritime décor. Available as a one-night add-on, it can be booked before or during voyages. MSC Cruises has come up with an ideal solution for guest queries: MSC Concierge, an AI-powered digital assistant full of information (in 90 languages no less). Available through the MSC for Me app, it not only answers questions, but can book restaurants, spa treatments and excursions. 08 June, 2026 -
Amadeus Aurea Christened in AmsterdamAmadeus Aurea Christened in Amsterdam
Amadeus River Cruises has officially welcomed the newest addition to its premium river cruise fleet - the AMADEUS Aurea – which was christened in Amsterdam on 15th May. Combining elegant design, innovative technology and a strong commitment to sustainability, the newly built vessel has now embarked on its maiden season sailing Europe’s Rhine and Danube rivers.During the christening ceremony, Kristie Keller - owner of Addicted to Adventures and a long-standing partner of the AMADEUS brand - served as godmother. In keeping with maritime tradition, she ceremoniously christened the ship by breaking a champagne bottle against the bow. Following the blessing of the vessel, invited guests and partners were welcomed aboard for an exclusive inaugural cruise through Amsterdam’s harbour, offering the first opportunity to experience the ship firsthand.At 135 meters in length, the AMADEUS Aurea accommodates up to 158 guests in spacious surroundings with panoramic river views. The ship features generously sized suites with walk-out balconies as well as bright, elegantly appointed staterooms. Public spaces include a serene spa and fitness area, the stylish Café Vienna and an expansive sun deck with plenty of open-air spaces and a heated pool.In addition to its contemporary luxury, the AMADEUS Aurea introduces advanced environmental technologies aimed at reducing the ship’s ecological footprint. An intelligent hybrid propulsion system helps lower emissions, while solar panels, heat recovery systems and state-of-the-art energy management ensure efficient onboard operations. Specially designed glass architecture further contributes to enhanced energy efficiency and onboard comfort.“With the launch of the AMADEUS Aurea, we are continuing our long-term commitment to investing in the future of premium river cruising,” says Wolfgang Lüftner, founder and CEO of Amadeus River Cruises. “Today’s travellers want meaningful experiences without compromising on quality, and our goal is to deliver exactly that — a refined river cruise experience that is both responsible and uncompromisingly luxurious.”The AMADEUS Aurea will sail a selection of popular itineraries along the Rhine and Danube rivers. Highlights include the classic Rhine cruise from Amsterdam to Basel, showcasing charming riverside towns, vineyard landscapes and cultural landmarks along one of Europe’s most iconic waterways. On the Danube, guests can experience the “Danube Rhapsody” round-trip itinerary from Passau, featuring visits to the imperial capitals of Vienna and Budapest, as well as the “Blue Danube” voyage from Nuremberg to Passau. During the festive season, the AMADEUS Aurea will also operate the festive “Magic of Advent” cruise from Strasbourg to Cologne, combining traditional Christmas markets with the elegance and comfort of luxury river cruising. 02 June, 2026 -
London’s Tower Bridge Opens for Silversea’s Luxury Expedition Ship, Silver WindLondon’s Tower Bridge Opens for Silversea’s Luxury Expedition Ship, Silver Wind
Considered a rite of passage by many cruise enthusiasts, Silver Wind passed under the iconic Tower Bridge on Sunday evening evening during a rare call in the city centre, following an immersive 12-day voyage from Lisbon.Offering spectacular vistas over the River Thames, the ship was docked at Tower Bridge until approximately 8:00pm on Monday evening, before departing again to begin its next sailing to Edinburgh, before venturing on for Icelandic and Arctic expeditions. The call provided onlookers with the chance to witness a memorable maritime moment, as the ship’s final call in central London for several years.Silver Wind will later go on to serve Silversea’s Antarctica Fly Cruise itineraries from October of this year, in line with the opening of the brand’s first hotel, ‘The Cormorant at 55 South’ in Puerto Williams, Chile. The new hotel will stand as the southernmost in the world, with a stay included as part of Silversea’s Antarctica Fly Cruise programme.Silver Wind’s arrival at Tower Bridge highlights Silversea’s destination leadership. The brand delivers immersive travel experiences in over 900 of the world’s most remarkable destinations – more than any other cruise travel brand. Designed to bring travellers closer to each destination, Silversea's expedition voyages blend cultural discovery with immersive experiences, including sailings in the polar wildernesses of Antarctica and the Arctic. 26 May, 2026 -
Virgin Voyages officially starts Alaska season with new onboard programmeVirgin Voyages officially starts Alaska season with new onboard programme
Virgin Voyages has launched its first Alaska season, with sailings from Seattle starting May 22 onboard Brilliant Lady.There will be a total of seven itineraries available, across 17 sail dates ranging from seven to 12 nights. The season includes destination-inspired dining and a range of Alaska-exclusive onboard experiences.Entering Alaska the Virgin Voyages wayHighlights of the season include:• More than half of Alaska Shore Things (shore excursions) operated by sustainable tour operators, including those certified through Adventure Green Alaska and Travelife• The onboard marine team partnering with ORCA for detailed training on whale sighting• A wildlife expert onboard full-time to help educate Sailors (guests)• Voluntary speed reductions throughout the region to help protect large cetaceans and marine life• Advanced wastewater treatment systems and shore power capabilityNew expert guests and immersive programmingVirgin Voyages is introducing two new ‘Happenings Cast’ members created specifically for the Alaska season. The cast are performers and activity leaders on the ship and will comprise:• The Lumberjack, who will be onboard select voyages and bring Alaska’s timber legacy to life through storytelling and destination insight linked to Ketchikan.• The Naturalist, a wildlife and ecology expert, who will help Sailors learn more about Alaska’s glaciers, whales, wildlife and wider ecosystem through informal and small-group conversations.Virgin Voyages will also include a Cultural Heritage Guide from ‘Alaska Native Voices’ on select sailings. The guide will host conversations and workshops focused on art, storytelling, contemporary culture and the lived experiences of Alaska Native communities. They will be joined by Indigenous makers, contemporary Alaskan artists and representatives from local communities.SJ Walker, Virgin Voyages’ UK Director of Sales, said: “For the UK trade, Alaska represents a significant expansion of the Virgin Voyages product and a massive opportunity. The programme is in direct response to demand from our guests, more than 30% of whom return to sail with us again. It gives First Mates another option for clients looking for a premium, adults-only cruise experience beyond our established Caribbean and Mediterranean programmes.” 21 May, 2026 -
Windstar Cruises to open UK operation ahead of second new ship joining the fleet in December 2026Windstar Cruises to open UK operation ahead of second new ship joining the fleet in December 2026
Windstar Cruises has announced that it is establishing an operating presence in the United Kingdom which, once in place, will mark a major strategic step in its international growth strategy and significantly expand the line’s distribution to UK travel agents.As part of this expansion, Windstar Cruises has established Windstar Cruises UK Ltd and is in the process of securing consumer bonding through ABTOT which will allow them to book cruise only with full consumer protection. Later this year, Windstar aims to attain ATOL bonding and, for the first time ever in the UK, be able to sell flight-inclusive cruises. The move will open up the door for substantially more UK agents to contract directly with Windstar for the first time, backed by direct access to the line’s online booking engine for seamless cruise-only reservations. Windstar will continue to support and extend its existing agreements with Traveltek, Odysseus and other platforms, ensuring system access for all UK trade partners.The timing aligns with significant fleet expansion and a total of eight yachts sailing around the world: Star Seeker, the newest Star Class all-suite yacht, joined the fleet in December 2025 and Star Explorer will debut in December 2026, creating additional capacity and new itinerary opportunities for UK agents and their clients. The new yachts also allow Windstar to return their much-loved sailing ship back to Tahiti with Wind Star joining Star Breeze in 2027.Christopher Prelog, president of Windstar Cruises, said: “We’re excited to strengthen our presence in the UK and expand our support for the travel trade. We’ve been welcoming guests from the UK for over 40 years and we are delighted that as we grow the number of travel agents working directly with us we get to welcome back our loyal guests and welcome new-tobrand, especially those cruise sceptics that are looking for a more intimate cruise experience that is 180 Degrees from Ordinary. We’re grateful to The Cruise Line for serving as our UK general sales agent since May 2022, and we look forward to continuing to work together as we grow in this key market.”The UK expansion is led by Helen Beck, managing director, global commercial. "This is the first step in significantly increasing Windstar's distribution in the UK," said Beck. "We're committed to working directly with more agents than ever before, while continuing to value and invest in our platform partnerships meaning UK agents can now book cruise-only with full confidence."Windstar Cruises is looking to appoint a new manager, sales operations & enablement. Based in the UK, this role will contribute to global sales operations and support partners across all international markets, while laying the foundation for the continued growth of Windstar’s UK presence.These moves underscore Windstar’s ongoing investment in London, the wider UK and Europe. Demonstrating this commitment, the line has launched its first season of ex-London short cruises aboard the recently refreshed Star Pride which completed drydock earlier this month. This series of short cruises will continue to expand next year, and looking further ahead, Windstar’s newest all-suite yacht, Star Explorer, will be christened in London in June 2027.Windstar’s presence in Europe is expanding, with 19 ports of call throughout the UK and a strong network across the Mediterranean, including more than 30 ports in Italy and over 25 ports in Greece and Spain. Agents can also grow their business by educating river cruise customers about Windstar’s unique style of cruising, which shares many features with river cruises - such as intimate ships, immersive itineraries and journeys that blend river and ocean cruising. Windstar’s innovative itineraries offer the opportunity to experience both river and ocean travel within a single voyage, providing river cruisers with a fresh way to explore and discover.Agents wishing to work with Windstar Cruises in the UK should contact Augustus Lonsdale, head of sales at [email protected] 18 May, 2026 -
Tourism Minister calls for UK cruise growth as industry gathers for CLIA’s Cruise Tourism SummitTourism Minister calls for UK cruise growth as industry gathers for CLIA’s Cruise Tourism Summit
Minister praises cruise as “integral part of the UK’s visitor economy” as Tourism Economics data shows that the industry supports 69,000 UK jobs.Event highlights wide range of benefits cruise brings to local communities across the country, with a focus on the North East as event hosted in Newcastle and the Port of Tyne.UK Tourism Minister Stephanie Peacock MP today reaffirmed government support for cruise growth as industry leaders gathered at the Port of Tyne for CLIA’s Cruise Tourism Summit.The Summit united cruise leaders, UK government representatives, ports, and tourism organisations. The programme explored ways that cruise can expand economic opportunity, strengthen regional tourism, and create lasting value for communities across the country.The Summit follows the publication of the UK Government’s Cruise Growth Plan in September last year.In her address, the Minister highlighted the sector’s role in the wider visitor economy and noted that the UK remains the world’s third-largest cruise source market. She also spoke about the opportunities the sector creates across tourism, hospitality, maritime services, supply chains and travel agencies nationwide.In 2024, cruise generated £6.3 billion for the UK economy (including direct, indirect and induced output), while supporting 69,000 jobs.Speakers at the Summit stressed the need to maintain a competitive operating environment as cruise lines make long-term deployment and investment decisions worldwide. They also discussed how the UK can strengthen its position in the global cruise market and increase economic impact in the years ahead.The Summit demonstrated cruise’s growing role in supporting local and regional economies, as Matthew Dass, Director at Tourism Economics, presented CLIA’s latest economic impact data.The programme highlighted the North East of England and its expanding role in the UK cruise market. Delegates attended a launch reception hosted by the Port of Tyne, where Commercial Director Craig Morton welcomed guests to Newcastle.Sessions onboard Fred. Olsen’s Balmoral brought together cruise executives, policymakers, and destination leaders, with remarks from Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines CEO Samantha Stimpson, CLIA UK & Ireland Managing Director Andy Harmer, and CLIA UK Chair David Dingle.Industry leaders joined a panel on the future of sustainable and responsible cruise tourism in the UK, featuring MSC Cruises’ Vice President for Sustainability and ESG, Linden Coppell; Carnival Maritime’s Senior Manager for Port Operations and Destination Engagement, Richard Cook; and Portsmouth International Port’s Technical Director, Stephen Watkyns.Stephanie Peacock MP, Minister for Tourism, said: “The cruise industry is an integral part of the UK’s visitor economy, driving growth, creating jobs and supporting high streets and businesses across all four nations. In the UK Cruise Growth Plan published last year, we set out our shared vision of how we can ensure the sector can sustain its role as a powerful engine of economic activity and thrive long into the future.“Building on the success of the sector, we remain committed to supporting the UK’s visitor economy as a whole. That’s why we are developing a Visitor Economy Growth Strategy which will provide a clear, long-term plan to unlock investment, support businesses and increase visitor flows across England.”Andy Harmer OBE, Managing Director, CLIA, said: “It has been a pleasure to welcome delegates from across industry and government to our second Cruise Tourism Summit, and to celebrate the range of benefits that our sector brings to the UK.“Cruise continues to be a driver of growth and opportunity for local economies across the UK. This success is a testament to the collaboration between cruise lines, ports, destinations, and suppliers, who work together to provide incredible experiences to all those who visit our shores. With the right Government policies that enable the UK to remain competitive, there is great potential for the contributions of cruise to grow further in the years to come.”Samantha Stimpson, CEO, Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said: “It was a privilege to welcome such an influential group of leaders and stakeholders aboard Balmoral."We all have a role to play in ensuring the UK cruise sector continues to grow and evolve, and that growth doesn’t happen in silos. It is shaped by collaboration, alignment and long term thinking."Thank you to CLIA for creating the platform to bring the industry together for these important conversations.”Craig Morton, Commercial Director, Port of Tyne, said: “As the North East Gateway for Cruise, The Port of Tyne are proud to welcome the Cruise Tourism Summit to the North East and to showcase everything the Port of Tyne Cruise operation has to offer."More people are choosing to start their cruise holidays from the Tyne, while thousands of visitors are arriving to experience our region for the first time. That growth reflects both the strength of our offer and the appeal of the North East."Cruise tourism brings real value to the region, supporting jobs and local businesses while showcasing the North East’s culture, heritage and visitor attractions.” 15 May, 2026 -
MSC Poesia departs from Seattle on MSC Cruises’ first Alaska SeasonMSC Poesia departs from Seattle on MSC Cruises’ first Alaska Season
MSC Cruises marked a new milestone as MSC Poesia departed Seattle, United States, on her first sailing to Alaska – MSC Cruises’ first time in this region, offering guests the chance to experience the region’s breathtaking scenery through to September.The newly upgraded MSC Poesia, which now features a brand-new MSC Yacht Club, the cruise line’s luxury “ship-within-a-ship” concept, along with new dining venues and enhanced wellness and fitness facilities, departed Seattle yesterday, officially launching her inaugural summer season and marking a new chapter for MSC Cruises.MSC Poesia departs weekly from her homeport in Seattle and offers seven-night itineraries calling at Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point and Juneau in Alaska (US) along with Victoria (Canada). Sailings also include scenic cruising through stunning Endicott Arm fjord, for views of Dawes Glacier.MSC Poesia will return to Alaska for next year’s summer season in April 2027, with itineraries already available to book. As part of its commitment to responsible operations in Alaska, MSC Cruises is partnering with ORCA to support marine research, with an expert onboard MSC Poesia during peak whale season to lead crew training, guest education and insights into Alaska’s marine wildlife.More about MSC Poesia’s upgraded facilities and experiences:In addition to the MSC Yacht Club, the ship’s enhancements include an upgraded MSC Aurea Spa, cutting-edge MSC Gym powered by Technogym®, a Gentleman’s Barber, and new workout studios.Guests sailing to Alaska can also dine in two new speciality dining venues - Butcher’s Cut, an authentic American-style steakhouse, and Kaito Sushi Bar – where guests can savour expertly crafted sushi and exquisite authentic Asian dishes.Guests will also get to enjoy an enhanced culinary programme inspired by the region, with tailored dining and beverage offerings created specifically for MSC Cruises’ sailings in Alaska - from hearty regional cuisine, expanded seafood selections, warming beverages and regional-inspired cocktails throughout the voyage.MSC Poesia will also feature enhanced entertainment throughout the Alaska season, highlighted by “Dirty Dancing: In Concert,” a live-to-film production featuring singers, dancers and a live band performing alongside the iconic movie. Guests will also enjoy live music, themed parties, comedy performances, family activities as well as expert talks, narrated scenic experiences and interactive workshops inspired by the region’s wildlife, geography and culture.After September, MSC Poesia will reposition to offer round trip sailings in the Caribbean for Winter 2026/2027 before returning to Alaska for her 2027 summer season. Between the seasons the ship offers MSC Grand Voyage sailings through iconic Panama Canal between Miami and Seattle. 12 May, 2026 -
AmaWaterways christens AmaMelodia, expanding its pioneering presence on Colombia’s Magdalena RiverAmaWaterways christens AmaMelodia, expanding its pioneering presence on Colombia’s Magdalena River
AmaWaterways, the first major river cruise company to navigate Colombia’s Magdalena River, has officially christened its second ship in Colombia, AmaMelodia, in Barranquilla, marking another milestone in the company’s expansion in the region.The christening ceremony brought together local partners, including ProColombia, Colombia’s government agency responsible for promoting tourism, as well as government representatives and community leaders, highlighting AmaWaterways’ continued commitment to the region. A traditional blessing by a local Mamo honored the cultural heritage of the Magdalena River, followed by remarks from co-founders Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst, and the ship’s future Captain and godmother, Elisabeth Mercado Herrera.AmaMelodia builds on the success of the award-winning AmaMagdalena, offering intimate itineraries for up to 64 guests and further strengthening AmaWaterways’ presence in the region. Designed in collaboration with Colombian architect Camilo Restrepo, the ship reflects the rich culture and natural beauty of Colombia while delivering the comfort and service the brand is known for.“This milestone means so much to us, not only as we expand our presence in Colombia, but also as we continue to strengthen the relationships we’ve built here,” said Kristin Karst, Chief Brand Ambassador of AmaWaterways. “From the beginning, our goal has been to create experiences that are meaningful for our guests while also benefiting local communities, and AmaMelodia is a beautiful reflection of that.”Sailing the “Magic of Colombia” and “Wonders of Colombia” itineraries, AmaWaterways’ ships provide exclusive access to remote and culturally significant destinations along the Magdalena River, many of which were previously difficult to reach, such as Mompox, a town renowned for its architecture and fine filigree jewelry, and Palenque, the first “free town” in the Americas and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Guests can choose from curated shore excursions led by knowledgeable local guides, like wildlife watching in the La Mojana wetlands and visits to Santa Bárbara de Pinto, where artisans keep generations-old traditions alive through handwoven fishing nets and intricate handmade crafts. They can also enjoy onboard amenities including a Sun Deck pool, fitness room, spa services and dining venues offering locally inspired gourmet cuisine. Optional pre- and post-cruise land packages in Medellín and Cartagena further enhance the experience.“As we continue to expand beyond our European roots, destinations like Colombia represent an exciting part of AmaWaterways’ future,” said Catherine Powell, CEO of AmaWaterways. “With AmaMelodia, we are building on our commitment to offer more diverse and immersive experiences in new regions, while continuing to deliver the high-quality journeys our guests expect.”Serving as godmother of AmaMelodia, Elisabeth Mercado Herrera is the first woman to become a river cruise captain on the Magdalena River in Colombia. Her role reflects AmaWaterways’ commitment to supporting local talent while opening new opportunities within the maritime and river cruise industry.“As a Colombian and as someone who has been closely involved in this experience, this moment is incredibly meaningful to me,” said Mercado Herrera. “It’s something I’m very proud of, not just professionally, but for what it represents for my country. Bringing river cruising to the Magdalena opens new opportunities for the communities along the riverbanks, and I hope my career journey inspires more women to see a future for themselves in this industry.”AmaWaterways’ expansion in Colombia underscores its long-term vision for the Magdalena River, offering travelers a new way to explore the country through immersive, culturally rich itineraries while contributing to the region’s sustainable development. 01 May, 2026 -
Royal Caribbean Opens Royal Beach Club SantoriniRoyal Caribbean Opens Royal Beach Club Santorini
Today, Royal Caribbean welcomed guests to Royal Beach Club Santorini, marking the first Royal Beach Club to open in Europe! Part of the Ultimate Santorini Day, a full-day shore excursion including visits to Oia, Fira and the new Royal Beach Club Santorini, vacationers can experience the Greek island’s breathtaking volcanic beaches and must-see landmarks while creating memories to last a lifetime.What's Included:Complimentary round-trip transportation to and throughout the island with visits to Oia and Fira:•Oia: Wander cliffside paths where whitewashed buildings and blue domes spill toward the sea. Stroll the village to discover charming shops, caldera views, and cascading architecture—Santorini's most photographed and iconic location.•Fira: Take sun-soaked strolls and immerse yourself in Fira, Santorini's buzzing capital city, home to sweeping vistas and vibrant daily life. Sample cafés, explore local art galleries and snap cliffside selfies with beautiful views of the caldera.Access to Royal Beach Club Santorini which includes:•An exclusive, volcanic black sand beach with sweeping views of the Aegean Sea•Luxe loungers, umbrellas, plush towels and convenient amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi•Unlimited Greek cuisine including an all-you-can-eat buffet, grab and go quick bites, and Greek frozen yogurt; a complimentary welcome drink, house wine, draft beer and more•Live DJ keeping the vibes going all dayGuests can book the Ultimate Santorini Day through the Royal App or through their travel advisor. 01 May, 2026