News & Articles
Remain informed of the latest news, developments and innovations. Access to some articles is based on your regional membership.
Filters
Clear Filters
Requires Login
-
April 2026 ReviewApril 2026 Review
Despite the uncertain outlook, this month showed there are plenty of reasons to be cheerful where cruising is concerned as CLIA reported a booming UK market with 2.5 million cruisers last year. In a slice of further good fortune, the marooned ships of Celestyal and MSC Cruises, among others, finally made it out of the Arabian Gulf through the Strait of Hormuz.New ships galoreRoyal Caribbean International confirmed its sixth and seventh Icon class ships for delivery in 2029 and 2030 respectively, while Princess Cruises unveiled an order for three new Voyager class ships to arrive in 2035, 2038 and 2039. Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest and largest ship Norwegian Aura was floated out at the Italian shipyard where it is being built ahead of its May 2027 debut, while Emerald Cruises’ new superyacht Emerald Kaia set off on its inaugural voyage from Cyprus.Refreshed ships . . .Holland America Line is set for the largest fleet update in the line’s 153-year history by overhauling six of its ships starting with Oosterdam in 2027, while Oceania Cruises is planning the “reinspiration” of Oceania Marina in a dry-dock revamp this October and the transformation of Oceania Nautica. This will debut as the new-look Oceania Aurelia in 2027. Meanwhile, Windstar Cruises’ original sailing yacht Wind Star emerged from a redesign with a more refined, modern feel and MSC’s transformed MSC Poesia exited dry-dock with the newly-added MSC Yacht Club.. . . and new resortsMSC is to add another private island in the Bahamas with Sandy Cay, which sits next to its existing Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, opening in 2028 while RCI’s second Royal Beach Club has opened its doors on Santorini.Rivers updateTUI River Cruises has bolstered its summer offering with 10 new excursions across Rhine and Danube sailings, complementing new Serbian port Kladovo and newly-launched ship TUI Aria. Riverside Luxury Cruises is raising glasses to its first cruise for beer-lovers aboard Riverside Debussy on the Rhine in July.Far-flung temptationsPrincess Cruises is going big in Japan with its largest programme to the country for summer 2028 with Diamond Princess and Sapphire Princess homeporting in Tokyo as part of the line’s most expansive Southeast Asia deployment for 2027/28. RCI is also looking eastwards with a new line-up of China voyages for 2027/28 on Spectrum of the Seas. Windstar opened French Polynesia bookings for 2028 with Wind Star and Star Breeze based there year-round, while Swan Hellenic announced two West Africa voyages this autumn as a precursor to an expanded West Africa expedition programme in 2027. HX Expeditions is eyeing the Arctic with new immersive Greenland experiences for 2026/27 exploring the country’s cuisine and adventurous offering.Highlights for 2028In what promises to be a landmark event, Cunard’s four Queens will come together for the first time in Liverpool on May 16, 2028, as the city celebrates the 20th anniversary of being European Capital of Culture. P&O Cruises unveiled its biggest-ever summer programme for 2028 with 215 new cruises while Crystal gave an initial peek at its summer voyages which include Crystal Grace’s Mediterranean debut and Monte Carlo christening. Seabourn opened sales for its 2028/29 expedition voyages that include its second Pole to Pole Grand Expedition and an expanded Arctic programme. 29 April, 2026 -
Royal Caribbean Group confirms order with Meyer Turku for Icon 6 and 7Royal Caribbean Group confirms order with Meyer Turku for Icon 6 and 7
Royal Caribbean Group, a global vacation leader redefining the future of vacations, today announced it has confirmed with Meyer Turku the order of a sixth and seventh Icon Class ship to be delivered in 2029 and 2030, respectively. The order is part of the company’s long-term framework agreement with Meyer Turku that secures the Group’s access to shipbuilding capacity through 2036 and includes the previously announced Icon 5 order to be delivered in 2028. Meyer Turku has been a key partner in developing the award-winning Icon Class, helping to bring to life the most innovative ships ever built and advancing the next generation of vacation experiences. The Icon 7 order is subject to customary conditions, including financing.“The Icon Class reflects our bold creativity and engineering excellence that continues to define what a vacation can be,” said Jason Liberty, Chairman and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group. “Through our long-standing partnership with Meyer Turku, the Finnish government, and the strong Finnish maritime cluster, we are reimagining the industry for decades to come while also delivering meaningful economic impact for Finland.”This momentum underscores the shared commitment of both companies to push the boundaries of cruise ship design and innovation, allowing for the expansion of Royal Caribbean’s Icon Class fleet.“The order of sixth and seventh Icon Class vessels is a significant recognition of Meyer Turku and the Finnish maritime industry's talent and expertise. This milestone represents an important step forward in our partnership with Royal Caribbean Group to develop the shipbuilding sector over the next decade and beyond," said Casimir Lindholm, CEO of Meyer Turku.The collaboration between Royal Caribbean Group and Meyer Turku spans more than three decades, during which the shipyard has built 25 ships for the company. Meyer Turku and its supplier network employ approximately 13,000 workers, contributing over a billion euros annually to Finland’s economy. Each Icon ship represents the largest industrial projects in Finland. To date, Meyer Turku has built two Icon Class ships for Royal Caribbean Group including Icon of the Seas (January 2024) and Star of the Seas (August 2025). The third ship in the class – Legend of the Seas – will debut in July 2026 in the Western Mediterranean, featuring eight neighborhoods, a lineup of unrivaled experiences, including thrills and chill, the most dining at sea with 28 options, all-new nightlife and entertainment. The fourth in the Icon class, Hero of the Seas, will follow in 2027.The Icon Class is central to Royal Caribbean Group’s strategy to continually disrupt the travel sector through purposeful design, world class technologies, and immersive vacation experiences. Through ongoing investments in next-generation ships and an expanding portfolio of land-based destinations from three to eight by 2028, the company continues to broaden the way guests experience vacations across oceans, rivers, and land.Further orders are subject to Royal Caribbean Group's execution of construction agreements, which are expected to be subject to customary conditions including financing. 27 April, 2026 -
Introducing Oceania Aurelia, The Ultimate ExplorerIntroducing Oceania Aurelia, The Ultimate Explorer
Oceania Cruises®, the world’s leading culinary- and destination-focused luxury cruise line, today unveiled Oceania Aurelia™, The Ultimate Explorer, purposefully designed for extended global discoveries. Debuting in late 2027, she will be the ideal home at sea for long, immersive journeys, including the line’s 2028 and 2029 Around the World voyages as well as a series of expansive Grand Voyages.Launching as part of the line’s OceaniaNEXT™ program – the brand’s all-encompassing initiative at the heart of its commitment to continually enhance the guest experience – the completely reimagined ship, currently sailing as Oceania Nautica™, represents a new standard for far-reaching, immersive travel. Extraordinary space, intentional design and a club-like sense of community draw inspiration from the openness of the line’s newest ships and the warmth of a boutique hotel at sea.Welcoming fewer than 500 guests, served by 400 officers and crew, Oceania Aurelia offers a true home at sea where travelers will find sophisticated, inviting spaces to relax, connect and unwind as they sail around the globe.Luxurious suites with dedicated butler service define the onboard experience, with 179 of the ship’s 238 accommodations designed as spacious suites. Most exceed 300 square feet with select spanning up to 1,000 square feet, and many feature gracious living and dining spaces. The collection of suites includes beautifully remastered Owner’s, Vista and Penthouse Suites, plus new additions: Oceania Suites, Horizon Suites as well as a selection of Oceanview and Inside Suites, offering an array of options for world travelers. Each accommodation is meticulously appointed with thoughtful amenities that create the feel of a private residence, designed for ultimate comfort during longer voyages."Oceania Aurelia is our ultimate world explorer,” said Jason Montague, Chief Luxury Officer of Oceania Cruises. “She is designed specifically for guests who desire greater space, more suites and a deeper level of personalized care, particularly for extended journeys. Oceania Aurelia will be a smaller, more club-like ship that truly feels like a home at sea, providing travelers a deeper connection to the ports they visit.”Oceania Cruises’ signature genuine hospitality is delivered by nearly one crew member for every guest, ensuring attentive, unhurried care and meaningful personal connections throughout extended journeys.In keeping with Oceania Cruises’ commitment to serving The Finest Cuisine at Sea®, dining aboard Oceania Aurelia becomes another way to see the world, with menus reflecting the regions being explored in beloved venues: The Grand Dining Room, Polo Grill, Toscana, Terrace Café, Waves Grill and the Pizzeria in the evenings.The line’s beloved coffee venue, Baristas, will move to Horizons and will feature as new additions the Bakery, serving delicious pastries and European specialties, and the Crêperie, where travelers can enjoy fresh crêpes, waffles and gelato sundaes.Rounding out the experience are bars and lounges to toast the journey – including mixology experiences at the new Founders Bar.Extended time at sea invites guests to follow their curiosity through a series of enrichment opportunities, including: the new Chef’s Studio, offering a series of culinary workshops that explore flavor, technique and tradition; Artist Loft, inviting travelers to relax with creative activities; LYNC Digital Center, to connect, create and learn through interactive classes; Guest Speakers, providing engaging talks on a range of topics; and, for the first time, unlimited access to the Aquamar Spa Terrace for all guests. 22 April, 2026 -
The Mediterranean remains the most popular destination for UK & Ireland cruisers, as overall passenger numbers rise againThe Mediterranean remains the most popular destination for UK & Ireland cruisers, as overall passenger numbers rise again
Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has today (April 22, 2026) revealed holidaymakers from the UK and Ireland took 2.54 million ocean cruises last year, surpassing the previous highest total of 2.4 million in 2024.34.5% of passengers sailed in the Mediterranean, 27.2% Northern Europe and 13.7% the Caribbean. The Caribbean saw year-on-year passenger growth of 12%.The three destinations were similarly the most popular among UK and Ireland cruisers in 2024. The Caribbean remains the most popular overall global cruise destination.CLIA further stated:The average age of cruisers was 54.6, consistent year-on-year, with a 7% increase in children under 12The average cruise length was 9.6 days, in line with 9.7 days in 2024Seven-night departures remain the most popular, accounting for 44% of sailingsThe CLIA member cruise line fleet will see eight new ships enter service this year, bringing the total to 320 ocean-going vesselsAndy Harmer, CLIA UK & Ireland managing director, said: “Cruise continues to appeal to a wide range of holidaymakers, with the Mediterranean, Northern Europe and the Caribbean all offering a great range of experiences and itineraries. They represent a shift towards deeper cultural engagement and more time spent in destinations, supporting local economies through onshore activities and extended stays.“This diversity of destinations, combined with the flexibility and value that cruising offers, means it remains a very attractive choice for families, couples and multi-generational groups alike. It’s encouraging to see more children than ever travelling, reflecting cruise's appeal as an easy and convenient holiday option.” 22 April, 2026 -
Cunard Reveals Historic Four Queens Celebration in LiverpoolCunard Reveals Historic Four Queens Celebration in Liverpool
British luxury cruise line Cunard has announced a landmark moment when all four Cunard ships will come together in Liverpool for the first time.On 16 May 2028, Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth, Queen Victoria and Queen Anne will unite on the River Mersey, in what promises to be one of the most memorable occasions in Cunard’s modern history.The event will mark the first time the full fleet of four has ever assembled, and it will do so in Liverpool, Cunard’s spiritual home, where the company was founded in 1840. It offers a rare opportunity to see all four Queens together in one place.The last time Cunard ships gathered on the Mersey was in 2015, when the three Queens came together to celebrate the brand’s 175th anniversary, attracting more than one million spectators to the city and its waterfront. The 2028 gathering is expected to build on that legacy, drawing significant crowds and global attention, with Liverpool marking the moment in its own distinctive style through a waterfront celebration as the Four Queens meet and return home for the first time.Queen Mary 2’s arrival in Liverpool on 16 May 2028 will also mark her first ever transatlantic crossing from New York directly to the city, as well as Cunard’s first eastbound arrival from New York to Liverpool in more than 61 years, since RMS Sylvania berthed at Princes Landing Stage on 18 November 1966.The Four Queens event coincides with celebrations marking 20 years since Liverpool was named European Capital of Culture. The city is preparing a year-long programme of music, maritime and sporting events, with Cunard’s return forming a centrepiece of the celebrations.Guests will have the opportunity to be part of this historic once-in-a-lifetime moment through a series of specially designed Four Queens Celebration voyages across the Cunard fleet: •Queen Mary 2 will offer her first-ever transatlantic crossing from New York to Liverpool, arriving at the heart of the celebrations, before continuing with her renowned Transatlantic Crossings, Canada and New England voyages, and longer Caribbean itineraries.•Queen Anne begins her 2028 season in Scandinavia and Northern Europe, including the spectacular overnight stay in Liverpool.•Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria guests will experience the spectacle from on board the ships as they join the River Mersey gathering and sail together as part of the celebrations. Queen Elizabeth will sail from Southampton to Le Havre before joining the River Mersey celebrations, while Queen Victoria will arrive following a scenic voyage around the British Isles, visiting Scotland, Ireland, Northern Ireland, and Wales.Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, said: “Bringing our four Queens together on the Mersey for the first time will be a rare and incredibly special moment for Cunard. Liverpool is where our story began, and returning with the full fleet is a powerful celebration of that bond. It will be an unforgettable day for our guests, for the city, and for everyone who comes together to enjoy the spectacle from the shore.”Liam Robinson, Leader of Liverpool City Council, said: “Welcoming the four Cunard Queens at the same time will be an extraordinary occasion for our city, our residents, and our visitors. We are incredibly proud of our rich maritime heritage, and this promises to be a really special moment here in Liverpool, Cunard’s spiritual home.“2028 is shaping up to be a very exciting year for us - with the Four Queens’ visit, hosting Euro 2028 matches, and the 20th anniversary of Liverpool Capital of Culture, we’ve got a brilliant programme of events and activities in store.“We are looking forward to bringing people together once again and helping to deliver an experience that will be remembered long after the ships have sailed.”Further details on Cunard’s 2028 voyage itineraries and booking dates will be announced soon. 22 April, 2026 -
Royal Caribbean's Legend of the Seas sets sail on Sea Trials in preparation for July 2026 debutRoyal Caribbean's Legend of the Seas sets sail on Sea Trials in preparation for July 2026 debut
Royal Caribbean’s Legend of the Seas has reached a major construction milestone, officially beginning sea trials* in Turku, Finland, ahead of its July 2026 debut. The third ship in the revolutionary Icon Class has sailed the open ocean for the first time, marking one of the final phases of construction before welcoming its first vacationers.Over the next 10 days, more than 2,000 engineers and specialists will put Legend through a comprehensive series of technical tests to evaluate its systems, from testing how the ship moves in the open water to pushing its engine performance to the limits and more. Legend will cover approximately 2,400 nautical miles before returning to the Meyer Turku shipyard for its final stages of construction.Building on the record-breaking Icon Class lineup, Legend will deliver the world’s best family vacation with eight distinct neighborhoods for every mood, more than 40 ways to dine, drink and be entertained, and experiences for vacationers of all ages. After its inaugural European summer season, the new ship will head to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and take vacationers on 6-night Western Caribbean getaways and 8-night Southern Caribbean adventures, including visits to the vacation brand’s top-rated destination at Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas. 21 April, 2026 -
CroisiEurope celebrates 50th Anniversary & one of its most successful years to dateCroisiEurope celebrates 50th Anniversary & one of its most successful years to date
This May, French cruise operator CroisiEurope is celebrating its 50th anniversary along with an incredibly successful 2025, during which it carried over 205,000 passengers, served 1.8 million meals and reached 97% occupancy across its fleet of 50 river and ocean ships and hotel barges.Founded on 1st May 1976 by Gérard Schmitter in Strasbourg as Alsace Croisières, CroisiEurope has grown from a local river lunch-cruise operator into a leading European river cruise line. The family-owned company, rebranded to CroisiEurope in 1997, has built its reputation on innovation, becoming a major shipowner that builds, owns and operates a fleet of over 50 ships offering affordable, diverse itineraries across Europe and worldwide.Historical milestones include:1976: Gérard Schmitter founds Alsace Croisières, offering restaurantcruises on the Rhine near Strasbourg.1982: The company acquires its first boat, L'Alsace 1, offering cruises fromStrasbourg to Rüdesheim.1990: A major turning point occurs when the company begins acting as ashipowner, commissioning its first bespoke boat, the MS Liberté.1993: Launch of first cruises on the Danube.1995: Launch of first cruises on the Rhône and Saône.1997: Renamed CroisiEurope, marking its expansion beyond regional Frenchwaterways.1998: Launch of first cruises on the Seine and the Volga.1999: Gérard Schmitter hands the company over to his children.2000: Launch of first cruises in Venice, its lagoon and on the Po.2002: Launch of first cruises on the Douro.2004: Launch of first cruises on the Danube.2005: Launch of first cruises on the Guadalquivir.2007: Enters the coastal cruising market with MV La Belle de l’Adriatique.2011: Launch of first cruises on the Gironde and Garonne.2012: Launch of first cruises on the Mekong.2013: Introduces first hotel barge cruises on the French canals.2015: Introduces first paddlewheel ship on the Loire.2017: Launch of first cruises on the Elbe and Vltava.2019: Introduces its second ocean ship, La Belle des Oceans.2020: Launch of unique safari cruises on Lake Kariba in Southern Africa.2027: CroisiEurope to launch a brand new ship and itineraries on the Amazon.CroisiEurope celebrated its 50th anniversary last month with a high-profile gala in Strasbourg which was hosted by three generations of the Schmitter family. The event featured eight illuminated ships, 250 crew members and 50 chefs who delivered a high end culinary experience showcasing the richness and diversity of French gastronomy. Guests were also treated to an aquatic show on the Rhine which traced CroisiEurope’s journey over five decades, from its European roots to destinations as far afield as Southern Africa and Cambodia.To commemorate the 50th anniversary, CroisiEurope has launched a paddlewheel ship on the Seine along with a range of themed cruises including, wine, food and hiking. 21 April, 2026 -
The 2026 Cruise Career Springboard launches today in SouthamptonThe 2026 Cruise Career Springboard launches today in Southampton
The Cruise Career Springboard programme 2026 got underway today with the generous support of Princess Cruises, who hosted the participants onboard Majestic Princess and at Carnival House in Southampton.Three colleges are involved in the programme this year: Itchen College at Southampton, the North East Surrey College of Technology and Farnborough College of Technology. Twelve students were picked from each college, following a written application and tutor assessment. The students are supported by three industry mentors Graham Sadler, Jo Rzymowska and Peter Shanks, as well as programme founders Edwina and Matthew Lonsdale of Mundy Cruising.The launch day was guided by CLIA Trainer Steve Paddit. Over the course of eight weeks, students will follow a wide-ranging programme with the support of Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, Silversea Cruises, MSC, Explora Journeys, Norwegian Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Oceania Cruises, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises, APT Luxury Travel, Aqua Expeditions, VIVA Cruises, HX Expeditions, AmaWaterways, Ponant Cruises, Windstar Cruises, Real Response Media, Lindblad National Geographic, ABP, Widgety, Crystal/A&K Travel Group and CLIA.The Cruise Career Springboard is a programme which aims to create greater social mobility, diversity and inclusivity in the travel and cruise industries. It was founded by Edwina and Matthew Lonsdale from Mundy Cruising and is supported by leading industry figures who have all come together to invest in the next generation. The programme is now in its fourth year. 17 April, 2026 -
Norwegian Cruise Line Marks Major Construction Milestone with the Float Out of Norwegian AuraNorwegian Cruise Line Marks Major Construction Milestone with the Float Out of Norwegian Aura
Norwegian Cruise Line® (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel, together with its longtime shipbuilding partner Fincantieri S.p.A, celebrated the float out of Norwegian Aura™, marking a construction milestone for the cruise company’s largest and most illuminating vessel to date.The float out, which took place at Fincantieri's shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy, marks the first time Norwegian Aura touched water, signifying the completion of the ship's external hull construction. Following this milestone, the ship's interior development will continue progressing to the next phase ahead of her debut in the spring of 2027. To commemorate the occasion and honor maritime tradition, two ceremonial coins were welded into Norwegian Aura's hull during a traditional coin ceremony, symbolizing good fortune and safe passage for the ship, her crew and future guests.“Norwegian Aura's float out is a proud and meaningful moment for our entire team," said Marc Kazlauskas, president of Norwegian Cruise Line. "She builds on the legacy of our award-winning Prima Class while taking our commitment to thoughtfully designed guest-first experiences even further. Created in close partnership with Fincantieri, the ship is purposefully constructed to deliver an elevated, multi-generational vacation experience, with expansive outdoor spaces like Ocean Heights™, that bring families and friends together for fun-filled days. With her flexible, open-air design, Norwegian Aura is exceptionally well suited for Caribbean itineraries, offering the perfect balance of high-energy fun, relaxation and an effortless escape for guests of all ages."When she enters service, Norwegian Aura will set a new benchmark for NCL. Nearly 1,130 feet long and approximately 170,000 gross tons, the ship is 10% larger than her predecessors, Norwegian Aqua® and Norwegian Luna™. She will feature over 1,970 well-appointed staterooms accommodating approximately 3,880 guests at double occupancy.At the heart of Norwegian Aura's onboard experience will be Ocean Heights, an all-new open-air activities complex designed as a true multi-generational hub. Guests can enjoy the most slides of any NCL ship, including Eclipse Racers, the Company's first dueling waterslides; Aura Free Fall, a drop-in body waterslide that plunges guests down exhilarating twists and turns; and The Wave, a pendulum-style raft slide designed to accommodate up to four guests. Nearby, guests will discover the 82-foot Aura Ropes Course, a 25-foot rock-climbing wall and Aura Midway, which offers easygoing fun with carnival-style games. At night, the activity zone will transform into a visual spectacle with immersive lighting and LED projections for a more relaxed, social atmosphere.Norwegian Aura will introduce an expanded pool deck more than 20% larger than her predecessors, with additional seating, an extra hot tub, open lounge areas and a nearby Kids' Aqua Park, creating more space for families to relax and play together. Adults seeking a quieter escape can retreat to the ever-popular Vibe Beach Club, the exclusive adults-only outdoor lounge. An enhanced Ocean Boulevard, extended by 11%, will wrap around the ship's hull on deck eight with new hot tubs, seating and social spaces. Debuting family-friendly hubs ensure flexible ways for guests of every generation to enjoy time together or apart with Adventure Alley for kids aged six to 10, Little Explorer's Cove for the youngest sailors and a dedicated purpose-built Teen Hangout."Norwegian Aura's float out marks a highly symbolic and operationally significant milestone in our shared journey with Norwegian Cruise Line," said Luigi Matarazzo, general manager of Fincantieri's Merchant Ships Division. "This vessel reflects the strength of a long-standing partnership and our ability to turn design vision and innovation into tangible solutions, helping to redefine onboard experience for future generations of guests."Norwegian Aura will set sail on her maiden voyage on May 21, 2027, with a seven-day Mediterranean voyage departing from Trieste, Italy and calling to iconic ports in Italy and Malta, before embarking on a 14-day transatlantic crossing to the United States. Beginning June 10, 2027, she will homeport in Miami and offer a variety of seven-day voyages to the Eastern Caribbean and Western Caribbean with visits to the Company’s resort-style island destinations Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas and Harvest Caye in Belize through March 2028.When Norwegian Aura calls to Great Stirrup Cay for the first time in June 2027, guests will step ashore to a fully enhanced and more accessible private island experience, supported by a new multi-ship pier, a welcome plaza, and a tram service that makes moving from ship-to-shore and around the island easier than ever. Highlights available on Great Stirrup Cay include the Great Life Lagoon, a resort-style pool area with two swim-up bars, cabanas and lounge chairs, alongside the nearby Splash Harbor, offering aquatic fun for kids. It also features the adults-only Vibe Shore Club, a private beachfront retreat with premium seating and cabanas; and the Great Tides Waterpark, a nearly six-acre attraction featuring 19 waterslides, cliffside jumps, a kids' splash zone and an immersive river experience-ensuring a seamless, flexible island day for guests of all ages, from arrival to departure. 16 April, 2026 -
Princess Cruises Announces Voyager Class OrderPrincess Cruises Announces Voyager Class Order
Princess Cruises, a leading global cruise line of Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL; NYSE: CUK), the world's largest leisure travel company, today announced three new shipbuilding agreements with Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri to build three new cruise ships on a next-generation platform designed to further enhance the line’s already world-class holiday experience for its guests. The new builds are slated to be delivered in late 2035, 2038 and 2039, respectively. The new vessels will seamlessly blend the most desired and highest-rated experiences and venues Princess Cruises is known for, with completely reimagined outer decks, staterooms and Piazza designs that cater to the brand’s global travellers and diverse deployments. These new ships will build upon the award-winning Sphere Class platform and continue to leverage the latest guest-facing and marine technologies. Similar to the highly successful Sun Princess and Star Princess, the Voyager Class ships will be dual-fuel powered - primarily by Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), the best readily available advanced fuel technology that delivers immediate GHG reductions, significantly reducing air emissions compared with other widely available conventional marine fuels. The new ships, which will be the largest by capacity in the Princess Cruises fleet, will be built at Fincantieri’s shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy. “The Voyager Class will delight both our loyal guests and attract the next generation of Princess guests. We have been leveraging extensive customer and agent research to strike the right balance between evolving our proven winners and introducing new concepts and partnerships grounded in what matters to our current and future guests,” said Gus Antorcha, Princess Cruises president. “From exceptional dining and inviting pool environments to elevated entertainment and beautifully reimagined spaces throughout the ship, we are leaving no area untouched as we thoughtfully evolve the Princess experience.” The three ships will be 183,000 gross tons and will accommodate approximately 4,700 guests. Specification details for the ship design, along with anticipated features and amenities of this all-new platform design for Princess Cruises will be shared in the future. Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO and managing director of Fincantieri, commented “We are delighted to announce this new agreement with Princess Cruises, which confirms the strength of a long-standing and forward-looking partnership. These new orders secure a robust workload for our shipyards through 2039 and further support the profitable development of our cruise business, as outlined in our 2026–2030 Industrial Plan. With the new Voyager Class ships, we are once again leveraging Fincantieri’s distinctive expertise in sustainable, next generation shipbuilding, supporting Princess Cruises in its growth trajectory and reaffirming our role as a trusted industrial partner for the evolution of the cruise industry.” The agreements for Princess Cruises’ next-generation cruise ships represent what will be Carnival Corporation’s 19th, 20th and 21st LNG-based vessels and is part of the company’s ongoing fleet enhancement strategy, aimed at creating excitement in the holiday market while accelerating demand for cruising, the fastest growing segment in the holiday industry. In addition to these three ships scheduled for delivery in late 2035, 2038 and 2039, Carnival Corporation has seven additional new ships under contract that are scheduled for delivery between 2027 and 2033. 16 April, 2026