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Royal Caribbean Group signs agreement for sixth Edge series shipRoyal Caribbean Group signs agreement for sixth Edge series ship
Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL) announced today that it has signed an agreement with Chantiers de l'Atlantique to order a sixth Edge Series ship for delivery to Celebrity Cruises in 2028. Edge 6 or “Xcel 2” will be the sister-ship toCelebrity Xcel, which is preparing to take its inaugural sail later this year. Other Edge Series ships includeCelebrity Ascent,Celebrity Beyond,Celebrity Apex, andCelebrity Edge– the first ship in the series that was delivered in 2018. “Celebrity's Edge Series redefined premium travel at sea, blending groundbreaking design and unforgettable guest experiences. Each ship in this award-winning series has set a new standard for the industry,and Celebrity Xcel, sailing later this year, is no exception,” said Jason Liberty, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group. Partnering with Chantiers de l’Atlantique to expand the Edge Series with Edge 6 is another milestone in our mission to deliver the world's best vacations responsibly.” “Celebrity Xcelwill be the happy place of vacationers globally when she launches in November and we’re thrilled to be making this commitment to bring her a sister ship in Edge 6," said Laura Hodges Bethge, president of Celebrity Cruises. "Celebrity Xcelwill take forward the best of Edge Series ships coupled with seven new experiences, all perfected with the help of our recently announced Xcel Dream Makers - an industry first program enlisting the power of cruisers to make final decisions across culinary, interior design and entertainment." Celebrity Cruises’ Edge Series ships transformed guest’s experience by bringing them closer to destinations with state-of-the-art features like the iconic Magic Carpet® – the world’s first cantilevered, floating platform at sea – offering a unique way to dine, drink and connect with destinations, or take in the dramatic local landscapes. Other innovations introduced by Celebrity’s Edge Series ships include Infinite Veranda® staterooms, which erase the boundaries between ship and shore. The sixth ship in the lineup will incorporate the series’ key features and make room for other yet-to-be-announced innovations. "The strong ties between Chantiers de l’Atlantique and Royal Caribbean Group have led to the creation of the unique Edge Series design,” said Laurent Castaing, Chief Executive Officer, Chantiers de l’Atlantique. “This sixth ship marks the epitome of a pioneering series in the cruise industry that is both elegant, high-performing, and ever more innovative, notably thanks to its methanol capabilities.” Royal Caribbean Group’s newbuild pipeline currently includes a total of eight ships on order. This year, the company will welcome two new ships including Royal Caribbean International’sStar of the SeasandCelebrity Xcel. With this announcement, Royal Caribbean Group continues to drive its moderate capacity growth to help guests turn a vacation of a lifetime into a lifetime of vacations. This agreement is contingent upon customary conditions, including financing. 27 January, 2025 -
Celebrity Cruises launches Dream Makers
Celebrity Cruises launches Dream Makers
Celebrity Cruises is inviting vacationers worldwide to create their dream vacation experience onCelebrity Xcel®withXcel‘Dream MakersSM.’ Open to all who wish to join, this global community will test, try and vote on new experiences. Their selections will launch onCelebrity Xcelin November 2025 for vacationers to enjoy, further elevating the fifth ship in the cruise line’s award-winningEdge® Seriesinto a class of its own. “We want to ensure our guests love our products and experiences, so involving them in the process to perfectCelebrity Xcelwas a great way to achieve this,” shares Michael Scheiner, chief marketing and product officer of Celebrity Cruises. “Celebrity Cruises is known for ground-breaking innovation in ship design and experiences unlike any other at sea, whenXcellaunches guests won’t have just found their happy place, they’ll have helped us build it.” In an industry first, Dream Makers will have the final say across key elements of the vacation experience to be offered onCelebrity Xcelwhen she sets sail. Through online polls and one-of-a-kind experiential in-person events, the public will perfect the ship’sdesign, culinary and entertainment offerings. Dream Makers will put their design, experiential and foodie skills to the test on Celebrity’s newest ship, making decisions across key spaces, including the ship’s seven, new, yet-to-be-revealed experiences. Dream Makers will make their mark on theCelebrity Xcelby: Choosing textiles, managing interior design elements and curating service offerings; Picking their favorite dishes and beverages, choosing table settings and shaping dining concepts; and Providing input on headline shows, curate props and costumes, select playlists and partake in selections to appoint pivotal entertainment positions onboard. With the help of Dream Makers,Celebrity Xcelwill push the boundaries of leisure travel. The ship reached a major milestone on January 18, floating out of dry dock at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France. The float out ceremony celebrated the completion of the ship’sexterior, bringingCelebrity Xcelone step closer to welcoming guests. The innovative ship will also advance Royal Caribbean Group’s decades-long commitment to sustaining the planet with the first tri-fuel capable engine, representing an important steppingstone on the company’s journey to Destination Net Zero, its vision for net-zero emissions by 2050. Celebrity Xcelis sailing her inaugural season from Fort Lauderdale, offering seven-night itineraries alternating between the Bahamas, Mexico, Cayman Islands, Puerto Plata, St. Thomas, and St. Maarten. In Summer 2026,Celebrity Xcelwill set sail on her inaugural European season where guests can immerse themselves in the Mediterranean like never before on seven-to 11-night journeys out of Barcelona and Athens, including all new overnight stays in Madeira, Portugal. Those interested in joiningXcel ‘Dream Makers’ can learn more atwww.celebritycruises.com/xceldreammakers. 27 January, 2025 -
Seabourn announces new 2026 Northwest Passage Expeditions on Seabourn Venture
Seabourn announces new 2026 Northwest Passage Expeditions on Seabourn Venture
Seabourn, the leader in ultra-luxury cruising and expedition travel, has unveiled its 2026 itineraries to the Northwest Passage and Canadian Arctic, giving guests the chance to explore some of the world’s most historic destinations and storied waterways. Between August and October 2026, Seabourn Venturewill offer six voyages ranging from eight to 24 days, traversing the historic routes of The Northwest Passage and Canadian Arctic before sailing south to explore the Caribbean, South America and Antarctica. The expedition voyages are now on sale, with dates and full itinerary details available here. ‘The Northwest Passage is one of the most famous and historic routes in the Arctic, and we are excited to give travellers an opportunity to explore this region with Seabourn’ said Mark Tamis, President of Seabourn. ‘Guests will admire towering icebergs, encounter unique wildlife found nowhere else, and immerse themselves in the stories of the daring expeditions that paved the way—all while enjoying Seabourn Venture’s ultra-luxury comforts and services’. Northwest Passage Experiences Seabourn Venturewill offer two ‘24-day Journey Across the Northwest Passage’ expeditions between Reykjavik, Iceland and Anchorage, Alaska, departing on 5 August and 29 August, as well as one ‘15-day Wild Labrador Coast: Missions, Fjords & Wilderness’ departing 20 September from Reykjavik to Halifax, Nova Scotia. Additionally, two combination cruises are available for a longer, more immersive experience: a ‘35-day Glaciers, Fjords & Northwest Passage’ voyage from Reykjavik to Anchorage and a ‘38-day Northwest Passage & Wild Labrador Coast’ itinerary from Anchorage to Halifax. Whether guests choose to sail eastbound or westbound, the expedition voyages will provide the same unforgettable opportunity to visit remote Arctic outposts and explore the historic Northwest Passage.Highlight experiences include the following: Exploring Devon Island, the world’s largest uninhabited island, located west of Baffin Bay, known as ‘Mars on Earth’ for its barren, rocky terrain, and polar desert climate. Connecting with the people of the Arctic, learning their stories and cultural traditions in Cambridge Bay. Visiting the remains of historic sites, like outposts of the Royal Canadian Mounted Policeand the Hudson’s Bay Company, in remote and uninhabited islands of the Canadian High Arctic. Touring Ilulissat, Greenland, once known as the ‘Town of 10,000 Souls’, where sled dogs outnumbered the population. Optional expedition experiences will also be available, including kayaking, submarine dives, and unique shore experiences like the Ilulissat Helicopter Adventure, a cruise to the abandoned settlement of Assaqutaq, or an Icefjord Cruise. Guests can also participate in the optional Image Masters programme, a hands-on photography experience offering in-the-field instruction on photo composition, camera techniques, editing, and retouching, all led by an accomplished nature photographer. Small groups of only 10 guests will participate in this exclusive, four-day workshop. The program provides personalised, in-depth guidance, allowing participants to refine their skills while capturing the breathtaking landscapes of the Northwest Passage. All sailings feature exclusive amenities such as inclusive economy air from guests’ departure city and complimentary full-service laundry. Caribbean, South America and Antarctica Following the Northwest Passage voyages, in October 2026, Seabourn Venturewill journey south to the Caribbean and South America, offering three voyages ranging from eight to 21 days. 5 – 13 October 2026 – an ‘8-day Southern Caribbean Yacht Harbours’ voyage from Halifax, Nova Scotia to Bridgetown, Barbados featuring visits to Rodney Bay (Saint Lucia), and Carambola Beach. While this itinerary does not feature expedition programming, guests can immerse themselves in Seabourn's signature intimate, yacht-like atmosphere and traditional ocean cruise experiences, enhanced by the exclusivity of a ship carrying only 264 guests. This voyage will also feature Seabourn’s signature Caviar in the Surf experience and private beach barbecue. 13 – 29 October 2026 – a ‘16-day Trinidad to Rio: South American Expedition’ from Bridgetown to Rio De Janeiro,travelling along the vibrant coast of Brazil. 29 October – 19 November 2026 –a ‘21-day Wild South Atlantic & Antarctic Peninsula’ from Rio De Janeiro to Buenos Aires, Argentina en route to begin its season in the White Continent. Guests can extend their journey with two combination voyages that explore both regions: a ‘24-day Southern Caribbean Yacht Harbours & Coast of Brazil’ itinerary and a ‘37-day From the Caribbean to the Antarctic’ voyage. Exploration, Adventure, and Luxurious Comfort Each expedition itinerary will include experiences led by an expert 23-person Expedition Team, consisting of academics, scientists, and naturalists. This elite team will guide nature walks, hikes and scenic Zodiac cruises, navigating through icebergs and beautiful waterways while highlighting marine mammals and wildlife along the shores. Additionally, guests on polar voyages will receive a complimentary PolarShield Parka by Helly Hansen to enhance their expedition experience. Seabourn Ventureoffers the same luxurious small ship experience that travellers have come to expect from Seabourn, enhanced by world-class equipment that allows the line to offer its widest range of expedition activities. Designed and built for remote, diverse environments to PC6 Polar Class standards, the ship includes a plethora of modern hardware and technology that extends the ship’s global deployment and capabilities. There is close to 30,000 square feet of deck space and special touches at every turn, as well as indoor and outdoor guest areas with nearly 270-degree views. In addition, a 4K GSS Cineflex Camera is mounted on the mast of the Constellation Lounge and capable of broadcasting imagery from miles ahead on monitors located throughout the ship and in guest suites. The ship is also equipped with enhanced Wi-Fi connectivity with SpaceX’s Starlink, providing its expedition guests with faster service, greater connectivity and more reliable Wi-Fi wherever Starlink’s services are available. 19 January, 2025 -
Cunard introduces Harpers Bazaar Wellness at Sea packages across iconic fleet of Queens
Cunard introduces Harpers Bazaar Wellness at Sea packages across iconic fleet of Queens
Cunard is proud to announce the fleet-wide roll out of its holistic Harper’s Bazaar Wellness at Sea programmes, a collaboration with the iconic lifestyle magazine. Launching this January, guests travelling on flagship Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria will be able to enjoy these curated wellness experiences, designed to help travellers feel revitalised and recharged as they journey to extraordinary destinations. Each exclusive three-day programme – Relax, Recover or Energise – has been carefully crafted to meet individual wellness goals. Priced at US$629 per guest, the packages include: a tailored selection of spa treatments, a premium range of ELEMIS products, and unique, nutritionally balanced dining options. These transformative wellness journeys* are available to book in My Cunard before guests sail, or once on board with the ship’s Spa Concierge. The introduction of these programmes marks an exciting evolution of Cunard’s award-winning wellness and enrichment offering, and coincides with the announcement of a brand new Wellness at Sea Event Voyage for 2026. Scheduled for 5-12 July 2026, this unique 7-night Norwegian Fjords voyage on board Queen Anne will include an inspiring variety of wellness-themed experiences – from invigorating classes and tailored spa treatments to enlightening Insights talks from expert speakers – to set a new standard for wellbeing at sea. Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, said: “Wellness is at the heart of what we offer at Cunard, and the Harper’s Bazaar Wellness at Sea programmes are a natural addition across our entire fleet. Ocean-inspired wellness is a unique part of the Cunard experience, offering guests the chance to relax, recharge, and feel renewed while sailing to extraordinary destinations. Whether they’re looking to unwind, recover, or boost their energy, these programmes will help them arrive feeling refreshed and inspired.” New Plant-Based Menus Cunard is also introducing a range of new plant-based menus across its fleet, developed in collaboration with chef Paul Gayler MBE, a pioneer in vegetarian and vegan cuisine. Showcasing the very best plant-based cuisine at sea, the menus draw inspiration from destinations where plant-based eating is a way of life—such as the Middle East—and use authentic cooking methods to reimagine classic dishes. More than 25 vegan dishes will be available in the Britannia restaurants on Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria, Queen Elizabeth, and newest ship Queen Anne. Created by Cunard’s team of chefs, the dishes feature fresh, plant-based ingredients, alongside high-quality pulses, spices, and vegan pastry creations. Agents can visit www.ShineRewardsClub.com for the latest Cunard news and information, as well as to earn Shine points for bookings and training. For more information about Cunard, or to book a voyage, visit www.cunard.com. 19 January, 2025 -
VIVA Cruises celebrates the christening of its third new build ship VIVA ENJOY
VIVA Cruises celebrates the christening of its third new build ship VIVA ENJOY
European river cruise specialist, VIVA Cruises, christened its newest ship, VIVA ENJOY, at its home port of Düsseldorf (Germany) yesterday. With a festive ceremony and many good wishes from guests, VIVA Cruises’ third new build ship is set to offer exciting itineraries on the Rhine, Danube and beyond. Award-winning UK cruise writer, Jeannine Williamson, was bestowed with the honour of being VIVA ENJOY’s godmother – a gesture that shows VIVA Cruises’ commitment to its growing English-speaking audience and the global market. VIVA ENJOY’s christening saw more than 200 globally invited guests as well as Düsseldorf passers-by watching on from ashore, to celebrate the launch. The VIVA Cruises team – including Andrea Kruse, CEO of VIVA Cruises, and Arno Reitsma, CEO of VIVA Cruises’ parent company, Scylla AG – welcomed guests on board the new ship for its christening festivities. German TV presenter, Marco Schreyl, oversaw the hosting of the event. Andrea Kruse, CEO of VIVA Cruises, said: “We are thrilled to celebrate the christening of our third new build ship today. This milestone marks another significant step in our journey to provide exceptional river cruising experiences. VIVA ENJOY, with its modern and premium amenities creates unforgettable journeys along the beautiful rivers of Europe. “Sister ship to VIVA TWO, VIVA ENJOY will offer an elevated experience for guests, including an extra multi-purpose treatment room, as well as three restaurants RIVERSIDE, MOMENTS and VIVA’s Bistro. The ship also has the gold standard of the international Green Award, highlighting our commitment to proactivity and protecting the environment. At VIVA Cruises, we are devoted to innovation and excellence, ensuring that every voyage with us is a truly enjoyable experience.” 17 January, 2025 -
Rolf Dieter Maltzahn announced as new CEO AROSA
Rolf Dieter Maltzahn announced as new CEO AROSA
Rolf-Dieter Maltzahn will be the new CEO of A-ROSA Flussschiff GmbH. The experienced manager will replace Jörg Eichler as managing director at the beginning of February 2025. Eichler will leave the company at the end of February 2025 following a handover of responsibilities. In his position, Maltzahn will work closely with Markus Zoepke, COO and co-partner of the company since 2003, who will continue to be in charge of operations at the Chur location in Switzerland. “We are delighted to have found a very experienced but also innovative CEO for A-ROSA in Rolf-Dieter Maltzahn. Thanks to his many years of diverse expertise in the tourism industry, particularly in the areas of business strategy, digitalisation and agile transformation, he will successfully lead A-ROSA River Cruises into the future,” emphasises Michael Ungerer, Chairman of the Advisory Board of the A-ROSA Group. “On behalf of the shareholders and the Advisory Board, I would like to thank Jörg Eichler for over eleven years of successful leadership and for developing A-ROSA into the premium brand it is today.” Rolf-Dieter Maltzahn has had an impressive career in the tourism industry. His career began in 1989 at TUI, where he held various management positions until 2008, ultimately serving as Head of Purchasing Central Europe. He then moved to DER Touristik, where he initially headed the hotel unit as CEO until 2013 and was responsible for package holidays as Managing Director until 2019. In these roles, he drove forward brand repositioning, digital innovations and process optimisation, which led to a successful turnaround with significant increases in sales and efficiency gains. A particular highlight was the launch of the ‘Cooee’ hotel brand, which made a meaningful contribution to winning new customers and increasing margins. Most recently, as Managing Director of GALERIA Reisen GmbH, he was responsible for the travel and tourism division. His work there included implementing the transformation to omnichannel sales, which combines modern digital concepts with in-store services. Other key areas were a realignment of the corporate culture as well as sustainable brand positioning. Rolf-Dieter Maltzahn on his new role as CEO: “I am looking forward to continuing the successful growth of A-ROSA Flussschiff GmbH. This is possible thanks to the strong team and trusting partnerships. In an environment of growth and digitalisation, it is also particularly important to win and maintain customer loyalty with very good omnichannel sales – which we will continue to work on together.” After more than eleven years as CEO, Jörg Eichler is leaving A-ROSA Flussschiff GmbH on his own initiative to take on a new and fulfilling role in the tourism industry. He is looking forward to handing the company into capable hands: “The timing is ideal for a successful handover of management responsibility at A-ROSA,” he summarises. “Following the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine, we were able to get A-ROSA firmly back on track by introducing new strategies and technologies. In 2024, we achieved the highest turnover in the company’s history and the pre-bookings for 2025, at +35%, also indicate that the more flexible premium fare has been well received. The company can now capitalise on this and continue its success story.” 17 January, 2025 -
Fred Olsen Cruise Lines unveils first ever Moments Crew
Fred Olsen Cruise Lines unveils first ever Moments Crew
Comedian-turned-artist Jim Moir (aka Vic Reeves), best-selling author Jenny Eclair, and celebrity photographer Scarlet Page, are taking to the seas to become the cruise industry’s first Moments Crew – a new service promising to capture guests’ most memorable onboard moments. Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has recruited the famous crew of documentarians following research that revealed 82 per cent of people say their life’s top memories are made while travelling. Moir, Eclair and Page will be on hand to capture guests’ big and small special moments – from whale spotting to meeting new friends – across several Fred. Olsen cruises in 2025. Sonia Holman, Marketing Director at Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, comments: “We know that some of life’s best memories are made on the high seas, so what better way to ensure they are caught than by assembling the first-ever crew dedicated to recording these unique moments in unique ways. We’re delighted to welcome Jim, Jenny and Scarlet onboard and look forward to seeing, reading and viewing the big and small guest moments they observe.” Research of over 1,000 British over 50-year-olds by Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines found that nearly all (95 per cent) agreed that travelling and exploring the world had given them happy memories that would stay with them for the rest of lives. 87 per cent said the act of travelling made them feel physically healthier, while 95 per cent said that time overseas resulted in improved mental stimulation. Nine out of ten (92 per cent) of respondents said the act of travel significantly reduced stress and gave them a more positive outlook on life. Jim Moir, Fred. Olsen’s artist-on-boardwho will join a Norwegian Fjords cruise, comments: “Some of my happiest memories are from travelling, so I am looking forward to stepping onboard with my easel and paints and capturing guests’ favourite views for prosperity. Personally, I hope to see some spectacular scenery, dramatic waterfalls and interesting birds like auks, darters and maybe even some puffins, which are always a delight to paint.” Jenny Eclair, Fred. Olsen’s writer-on-boardwho will join a Baltic cruise visiting fairytale castles and old towns, comments: “There is a rich literary history of travel writing, but my intention is to get the everyday holiday maker interested in keeping their own journals, even if it is just a record of what you had for dinner. In years to come, photos will take you back to places you loved, but it is often words on a page that will remind you of how those places felt.” Scarlet Page, Fred. Olsen’s photographer-on-boardwho will join a cruise to visit the volcanic vistas of the Azores and Maderia, comments: “As a photographer of celebrities and rock stars, I have always loved capturing those rare, unguarded moments that reveal true emotion. I’m excited to bring this approach to documenting guests, creating images that reflect genuine joy, calm, and the wonder of shared experiences. Whether it’s making new connections or marvelling at the beauty of our world, I aim to capture every moment with artistry and authenticity.” The top ten most memorable travel moments are: Watching the sun set over spectacular scenery (62 per cent) Seeing iconic buildings and cultural sites (46 per cent) Sunbathing (41 per cent) Eating and drinking local produce (36 per cent) Seeing wildlife (32 per cent) Spending time with locals (29 per cent) Visiting local festivals and carnivals (25 per cent) Visiting local markets (25 per cent) Exploring geographical features such as caves (22 per cent) Stargazing (19 per cent) 17 January, 2025 -
Finalists revealed ahead of sold-out CLIA Awards
Finalists revealed ahead of sold-out CLIA Awards
January 16, 2025 – Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has announced the finalists for its 22nd Cruise Industry Awards for Australasia, ahead of a sold-out celebration to be held in March. A total of 75 finalists have been chosen from across Australia and New Zealand and will be in the running to win one of cruising’s highest honours – each a sign of the dedication and professionalism of CLIA’s Australasian travel agent community. CLIA Managing Director in Australasia Joel Katz said this year’s finalists reflected a thriving membership that was now bigger than ever before. “CLIA’s travel agent membership is now at record levels in Australasia, and this is demonstrated by the breadth of nominations and finalists in this year’s awards,” Mr Katz said. “We can see new faces and fresh perspectives among the finalists, alongside some of the established achievers of the Australasian cruise community.” “Cruising has become a clear priority among our region’s travel agents, and so this year’s awards will help celebrate that focus and support,” he said. “The cruise industry is incredibly grateful for the passion and professionalism shown by our trade partners, and I congratulate all our award finalists for their success.” Around 800 nominations were received for this year’s awards, which will involve 15 categories. Key awards will be presented for Agency of the Year, Cruise Consultant of the Year, Home-Based Cruise Agent/Broker of the Year, Rising Star, Cruise Champion, Promotion of the Year and a Media Award. The 22nd Cruise Industry Awards for Australasia will be held at The Star Event Centre in Pyrmont, Sydney, on Saturday 8 March, 2025. For the full list of finalists visit CLIA Cruise Industry Awards. 16 January, 2025 -
Tickets on sale for expanded Cruise360 Australasia in Brisbane
Tickets on sale for expanded Cruise360 Australasia in Brisbane
January 14, 2025 – The Southern Hemisphere’s biggest annual cruise industry event is returning to Brisbane this year, with tickets now on sale for an expanded two-day Cruise360 Australasia conference in August. Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) today released a Super Earlybird Rate for tickets sold by 28 February 2025, available exclusively to CLIA travel agent members. Cruise360 Australasia 2025 will be held at the Royal International Convention Centre Brisbane on 27-28 August, involving a packed program of speakers and panel discussions, an extensive exhibition of cruise lines and destinations, and an industry cocktail event on the night of 27 August. CLIA Managing Director in Australasia Joel Katz said this year’s event would celebrate a thriving cruise sector, bringing together travel agents and other travel professionals, cruise line representatives, ports & destinations, travel industry suppliers and other CLIA partners. “Cruise 360 Australasia has become the most important event of the year for cruise specialists and our expanded 2025 conference will offer more than ever before,” Mr Katz said. “This is a fantastic opportunity to gain the latest insights from industry leaders, learn how to capitalise on cruising’s global prosperity, and connect with other cruise professionals from around our region. Tickets are limited and likely to sell-out quickly, so it’s important to book as soon as possible.” Cruise360 Australasia is supported by headline sponsor Visit Qatar, along with CLIA cruise lines, executive partners and other sponsors. Super Earlybird tickets for the two-day event are available exclusively to CLIA travel agent members for A$340 per person until 28 February 2025. For further details and bookings, visit Cruise360 Australasia 2025. 14 January, 2025 -
Queen Anne departs Southampton for historic maiden world voyage
Queen Anne departs Southampton for historic maiden world voyage
This is the moment Cunard’s newest luxury ship Queen Anne embarked on her historic 107-night maiden world voyage from Southampton, marking a new chapter in the cruise line’s distinguished history. Spectators gathered across the city to witness the ship’s 9pm departure last night (9 January), which was celebrated with a dazzling fireworks display*. The 3,000-guest ship will make her first American landfall in New York on 17 January, a city that has an enduring connection to Cunard and has welcomed Cunarders and their guests longer than any other destination. Queen Anne becomes the 14th ship in Cunard’s illustrious history to undertake a full world voyage. Notably, Queen Anne will also be the largest Cunarder to achieve a full circumnavigation of the globe. Over 107 nights, Queen Anne will call at 30 different ports across 18 countries. Highlights of the voyage include iconic calls to Miami, San Francisco, the Panama Canal, Honolulu, Auckland, Sydney, Hong Kong and more. Guests will also cross the International Date Line on 12 February, experiencing the rare phenomenon of ‘jumping through time’. The full world voyage also includes overnight stops in New York, Honolulu, Sydney, and Singapore, with Queen Anne returning to the south coast on 27 April. Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, said: “This is a significant moment for Cunard as Queen Anne begins her maiden world voyage. It’s especially fitting that her first visit to the USA will be New York, a city that has long been at the heart of Cunard’s story. This voyage celebrates our heritage while offering guests the opportunity to explore the world in the style and luxury only Cunard can provide. Queen Anne truly reflects the evolution of our brand, and this journey will be an unforgettable experience for all on board.” On board, guests will enjoy a variety of curated experiences, including world-class entertainment and a spectacular sailaway party, with celebrations continuing throughout the voyage. Highlights will include a special World Voyage cocktail party and a shoreside Gala Event – as well as enriching talks from notable speakers, such as Olympic gold medallist Rebecca Adlington OBE, hypnotist Paul McKenna, actor Charley Boorman and former Wimbledon champion Pat Cash. Queen Anne Queen Anne’s design concepts have been founded on heritage, craftmanship, style, storytelling, and innovation, and the 14-deck ship offers travellers several breath-taking experiences, and more choices of entertainment, dining, and bars than ever before. She also boasts the widest selection of fitness, beauty, thermal and spa facilities so far seen on a Cunard ship, with her reimagined Mareel Wellness & Beauty proposition – spearheaded by an exclusive Harper’s Bazaar Wellness at Sea programme – heralding a new era of wellbeing at sea. Agents can visit www.ShineRewardsClub.com for the latest Cunard news and information, as well as to earn Shine points for bookings and training. For more information about Cunard, or to book a voyage, visit www.cunard.com 10 January, 2025