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Holland America Line to enhance Denali Lodge and Alaska CruisetoursHolland America Line to enhance Denali Lodge and Alaska Cruisetours
Holland America Line has announced it will invest $70 million in a multi-year expansion of its Denali Lodge and Alaska Cruisetours product. The investment will be used to expand guest capacity and improve facilities at the Denali Lodge. Work will start in 2025, with additional enhancements taking place in 2026 and 2027. The expansion comprises: * 2025: Enhancements to the riverside interpretive trail with scenic viewpoints, improved on-site wayfinding, refined menu offerings for restaurants and public space improvements for the Cottonwood and Canyon Lodge guest room buildings. * 2026: 48 remodelled rooms in the Holland America Denali Lodge, a new coffee shop and a remodelled Karstens Public House with expanded indoor and outdoor seating. * 2027: A new guestroom building with 120 suite and standard rooms and a main lodge renovation that will include a new restaurant concept, a new lobby bar and an enhanced coffee experience. Beth Bodensteiner, president of Holland America Line, said: “It’s truly special that we can bring guests to a lodge at the doorstep of Denali National Park. This investment is a win for Alaska, our guests and Holland America Line. Enhancing and expanding the Holland America Denali Lodge will help meet the growing interest in combined land and sea Cruisetours for our 49th state and further support the Alaska tourism industry.” Holland America Line’s 2025 and 2026 Cruisetours are available to book, allowing guests to combine an Alaska cruise with a journey into Denali National Park and Canada’s Yukon Territory. The cruise line owns motorcoaches, railcars and hotels, providing preferential schedules for Cruisetour guests. Each itinerary includes a scenic ride on the glass-domed McKinley Explorer train and select itineraries visit Dawson and rides through the White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad from Skagway. Other select itineraries offer a direct-to-Denali service, taking guests from the ship to their Denali hotel room on the same day. Holland America Line has operated itineraries in Alaska for more than 75 years and offers more ways to see the wildlife of Alaska than any other cruise line. For more information on Holland America Line, consult a travel agent, visit hollandamerica.comor call 0344 338 8607. 10 January, 2025 -
Azamara Cruises announces longest world cruise yet in 2027
Azamara Cruises announces longest world cruise yet in 2027
Azamara Cruises, the small-ship cruise line renowned for Destination Immersion® and Extended Destination Days, is excited to reveal details and open reservations for its 2027 World Cruise aboard Azamara Quest. This extraordinary 188-night journey around the globe explores 37 countries, 103 destinations, and 5 continents. This once-in-a-lifetime cruise combines Azamara’s signature intimate small-ship experience with visits to some of the world’s most celebrated cities, including Sydney, Hong Kong, Tokyo, New York, Amsterdam, and Stockholm. Departing from San Francisco on 5th January 2027, the World Cruise will head to Hawaii before turning south to Polynesia (Bora Bora, Tahiti, Samoa, Tonga, Fiji), New Zealand, Tasmania and the southern coast of Australia. Azamara Quest will then cruise to Bali, Indonesia, beginning a two-month exploration of Asia including stops in Thailand, Vietnam, China, Japan and more. Azamara Quest will then cross the Pacific Ocean to Alaska before circumnavigating North America (via the Panama Canal) to St. John’s, Newfoundland, Canada. Finally, Azamara Quest will sail the transatlantic voyage to Northern Europe, visiting Ireland, Germany, Latvia, Estonia, Sweden, and more before concluding her World Cruise in Copenhagen, Denmark on 12th July. “World Cruises are a true bucket list experience, where guests can explore the world and make new friends of fellow travellers and crew along the way”, said David Duff, Managing Director of Azamara Cruises. “An Azamara World Cruise is naturally unique in offering the richest destination immersive experience, which our UK guests love! We’re therefore delighted to announce our 2027 World Cruise which is our biggest adventure yet. Launching from the iconic city of San Francisco guests can circle the Pacific taking in the vibrant and culturally rich Southeastern countries before heading back through the Panama Canal to Europe. With 65 late nights and overnights throughout the sailing, there’s also ample time to explore the cultures and communities we visit in depth, for a truly unforgettable adventure.” Throughout the cruise, immersive travel experiences that Azamara Cruises uniquely provides will enable guests to connect deeply with the destinations they visit: longer days in port and more overnight stays – the 2027 World Cruise will feature 50 late-night stays and 15 overnights authentic cultural encounters through exceptional shore excursions and Azamara’s signature AzAmazing Evenings - the 2027 World Cruise will feature 12 exclusive AzAmazing Evenings the small-ship advantage of accessing smaller ports and hidden gems that larger ships cannot reach such as transiting the Kiel Canal in Germany or cruising into the heart of Shanghai to dock right at The Bund inclusive amenities that provide added value through Always Azamara encompassing a variety of dining venues, room service, drinks (including house wines and beers) all day and night, gratuities, exclusive cultural events, and unlimited self-service laundry Azamara Cruises’ outstanding personalised, attentive service that keeps guests returning year after year “For our 2027 World Cruise, we’ve created an incredible route that will bring our guests to the doorsteps of sought-after destinations around the world,” said Dondra Ritzenthaler, CEO of Azamara Cruises. “Imagine sailing as far south as Stewart Island, New Zealand, and as far north as Helsinki, Finland, all in one cruise. We are stopping to see the world’s most beautiful skylines & bridges. It will really be a remarkable, unforgettable journey - one that I hope our long-time friends and brand-new friends will jump on!” Exclusive World Cruise Inclusions and Benefits Guests who book the full 2027 World Cruise will receive several complimentary offerings valued at over $40,000 per stateroom to enhance their vacation, including an $8,500 onboard credit, 15 exclusive events, unlimited wash-and-fold laundry, onboard medical consultations, and pre-cruise benefits such as airfare credit, one-night hotel stay, transfers, and $500 luggage shipping reimbursement. Guests will also enjoy unlimited Wi-Fi and complimentary Premium Beverage Package upgrades on this exceptional cruise. Reservations for Azamara Cruises’ 2027 World Cruise are now open. For more information or to book, guests can visit https://www.azamara.com/azamara-world-cruise-2027 or contact their preferred travel advisor. 10 January, 2025 -
Princess Cruises Ushers in a New Era of Mindful Indulgence
Princess Cruises Ushers in a New Era of Mindful Indulgence
While the world embraces Dry January, Princess Cruises is already planning for mindful indulgence beyond the New Year with the March debut of the Amore Princess Zero Alcohol Collection. This curated menu of premium non-alcoholic elixirs and spirits alternatives offers guests an innovative, sophisticated way to enjoy unforgettable moments at sea—without the alcohol. The Amore Princess Zero Alcohol Collection sets a new standard for the cruise industry as the first standalone non-alcoholic bar menu from a major cruise brand. The menu will feature an impressive array of 10–20 craft cocktails, developed in collaboration with the visionary team behind the world’s No. 1 bar (Sips, Barcelona), Princess mixologists, and renowned cocktail artist Rob Floyd. The menu also boasts an exclusive selection of imported and domestic craft non-alcoholic beers, along with white, red, rosé, and sparkling wines—all crafted to mirror the complexity and quality of traditional beverages. “At Princess, we’re committed to creating inclusive experiences for all of our guests,” said Sami Kohen, vice president of food and beverage for Princess Cruises. “The Amore Princess Zero Alcohol Collection reimagines what non-alcoholic drinks can be—delicious, sophisticated, and celebratory. By collaborating with exceptional brands like Betty Buzz and Lyre’s, and industry-leading mixologists, we’re proud to offer premium zero-proof options that complement the elevated Princess experience.” Signature offerings within the Amore Princess Zero Alcohol Collection will include: Betty Buzz Creations: Known for its premium, all-natural mixers, Betty Buzz adds a bright, effervescent touch to the collection. Highlights include the Blake’s Breeze, a crisp and refreshing blend of Betty Buzz Sparkling Grapefruit, a splash of soda, and a twist of citrus. Kylie Minogue’s Non-Alcoholic Sparkling Rosé: Known for her elegance and style, Kylie Minogue’s award-winning non-alcoholic sparkling rosé offers a light, crisp, and celebratory option, perfect for toasting unforgettable moments at sea. Lyre’s Non-Alcoholic Cocktails: Guests can savor complex mocktails featuring Lyre’s award-winning spirits alternatives, such as the No-Jito Royale, a modern take on the classic mojito made with Lyre’s White Cane Spirit, fresh mint, and lime. 24K Margarita: This dazzling creation combines the artistry of non-alcoholic spirits with the glamour of a signature margarita, featuring Almave tequila by Lewis Hamilton in a non-alcoholic version crafted exclusively for Princess. All spirits alternatives used in the collection are created with the same ingredients and meticulous methods as traditional alcoholic options, ensuring an authentic and indulgent experience. Drinks within the Amore Princess Zero Alcohol Collection will be included in the Princess Plus and Princess Premier packages, which include unlimited beverages among other premium amenities. The Amore Princess Zero Alcohol Collection will debut fleetwide by the end of March, making it a perfect way for guests seeking more mindful travel. Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel agent, by calling 0344 338 8663 or by visiting the company's website at princess.com. 09 January, 2025 -
Cunards Alaska 2026 voyages on sale with roundtrip sailings from Seattle
Cunards Alaska 2026 voyages on sale with roundtrip sailings from Seattle
Luxury cruise line Cunard has unveiled its highly anticipated Alaska 2026 programme, offering travellers the chance to embark on an unforgettable adventure through one of the world’s most awe-inspiring destinations. Between April and September 2026, Queen Elizabeth will sail 23 roundtrip voyages from Seattle, USA, ranging from 7 to 12 nights. Guests looking for a longer holiday that combines contrasting destinations can enjoy extended voyages of up to 42 nights, taking in both the majestic landscapes of Alaska and the tropical beauty of the Caribbean. Cunard’s 2026 programme features visits to 31 unique destinations across 16 countries, including highlights such as Colón, Panama, and Bridgetown, Barbados. Voyages are available to book from 1pm GMT on 8 January 2025, with guests able to claim up to triple on board credit* for bookings made between 8 January and 17 February 2025. This on board spending money allows guests to indulge in Cunard’s signature luxury, whether that means unwinding with a spa treatment, savouring fine dining, or enjoying exceptional shore experiences. Highlights include the opportunity to witness humpback whales in their natural habitat as Queen Elizabeth sails through Alaska’s glacier-filled fjords. Alaska highlights Queen Elizabeth’s voyages invite travellers to immerse themselves in a world of tidewater glaciers and mirror-like waters, where each day in port offers guests the freedom to step ashore and explore somewhere new. Whether it be Ketchikan, with its vibrant totem poles, Juneau, where famous gold mines put this historic city on the map, or Haines, a prime destination for kayaking, Alaska is an adventurer’s paradise. And not forgetting the beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site of Glacier Bay National Park and Hubbard Glacier, two gems in the Alaskan crown. Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, said: “Alaska is a truly unique destination, and we’re delighted to return with our 2026 programme. Sailing through its spectacular fjords and seeing the immense glaciers is an experience like no other. On board, guests can sip regionally inspired cocktails, enjoy cuisine influenced by local flavours, and hear fascinating stories from renowned explorers. These voyages promise to create unforgettable memories, and we can’t wait to welcome our guests on board Queen Elizabeth.” Agents can visit www.ShineRewardsClub.com for the latest Cunard news and information, as well as to earn Shine points for bookings and training. To celebrate this launch, Cunard’s valued travel agent partners can earn triple Shine points when they make and play their customers’ Cunard Fare Alaska bookings on Shine Rewards Club until midnight on 17 February 2025. For more information about Cunard, or to book a voyage, visit www.cunard.com. 09 January, 2025 -
American Cruise Lines Doubles Capacity in Alaska for 2025
American Cruise Lines Doubles Capacity in Alaska for 2025
American Cruise Linesis pleased to announce their biggest Alaskacruise season ever. The company will have 2 small ships in Alaska and 5 extraordinary itineraries,delivering once-in-a-lifetime experiences aboard sailings operating this May through September. For 2025, American has repositioned small ship,American Constitution, to the West Coast for summerAlaska cruises and spring and fall Puget Sound cruises. Doubling capacity in the region, 170-passenger,American Constitution, joins sister ship, American Constellation, sailing an exciting slate of 5 different Alaska itineraries, including 2 new Alaska National Parks cruises. These exclusive adventures feature 7-Days of land exploration in Denali and Kenai Fjords National Parks; a 12 or 9-Day cruise betweenFairbanks and Juneau, Alaska; and special small-ship access in Glacier Bay National Park. Among all the options available for cruising Alaska in 2025, American’s ships and itineraries offer a unique way to explore this bucket-list region. The company’s offerings are notable, because they blendsmall-ship expedition access with large-ship luxury and comfort on board. Unlike other small ships in theregion, U.S.-built,American ConstellationandAmerican Constitution, are both fully stabilized and offerprivate balcony accommodations, plus onboard amenities, from spacious top-deck lounges to alternatecasual dining venues, unheard of on ships of their size. All Itineraries offer included Pre-Cruise stays, anda range of exciting experiences featuring up-close views of Alaskan glaciers and wildlife, plus allAmerican’s cruises enjoy small-ship access to Glacier Bay National Park, with some sailings also includinga rare overnight in this world-renowned biosphere. 09 January, 2025 -
American Cruise Lines Doubles Capacity in Alaska for 2025
American Cruise Lines Doubles Capacity in Alaska for 2025
American Cruise Linesis pleased to announce their biggest Alaskacruise season ever. The company will have 2 small ships in Alaska and 5 extraordinary itineraries,delivering once-in-a-lifetime experiences aboard sailings operating this May through September. For 2025, American has repositioned small ship,American Constitution, to the West Coast for summerAlaska cruises and spring and fall Puget Sound cruises. Doubling capacity in the region, 170-passenger,American Constitution, joins sister ship, American Constellation, sailing an exciting slate of 5 different Alaska itineraries, including 2 new Alaska National Parks cruises. These exclusive adventures feature 7-Days of land exploration in Denali and Kenai Fjords National Parks; a 12 or 9-Day cruise betweenFairbanks and Juneau, Alaska; and special small-ship access in Glacier Bay National Park. Among all the options available for cruising Alaska in 2025, American’s ships and itineraries offer a unique way to explore this bucket-list region. The company’s offerings are notable, because they blendsmall-ship expedition access with large-ship luxury and comfort on board. Unlike other small ships in theregion, U.S.-built,American ConstellationandAmerican Constitution, are both fully stabilized and offerprivate balcony accommodations, plus onboard amenities, from spacious top-deck lounges to alternatecasual dining venues, unheard of on ships of their size. All Itineraries offer included Pre-Cruise stays, anda range of exciting experiences featuring up-close views of Alaskan glaciers and wildlife, plus allAmerican’s cruises enjoy small-ship access to Glacier Bay National Park, with some sailings also includinga rare overnight in this world-renowned biosphere. 09 January, 2025 -
Nine spectacular new ships make their debut in CLIA online showcase
Nine spectacular new ships make their debut in CLIA online showcase
January 8, 2025 – Nine of the most anticipated new cruise ships of 2025 will be showcased in an online education series for Australasian travel agents hosted next month by Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). The 2025 Ocean Debut Virtual Showcase will introduce the spectacular new fleet of ships due for launch this year, each offering new opportunities for cruise specialist travel agents and exciting new choices for cruise guests. Running from Monday 3rd February to Friday 7th February 2025, the showcase will offer daily live online sessions presented by nine CLIA cruise lines. Each will outline essential facts and features of their ships, including elements like dining options, entertainment, accommodation styles, public spaces, unique features and designs, and what type of experience guests can expect when they step on board. The showcase is available exclusively to CLIA member travel agents, who can register online for each of the sessions via the CLIA Members Hub. New ships to be profiled include: MSC Cruises – MSC World America Windstar – Star Seeker Norwegian Cruise Line – Norwegian Aqua Aurora Expeditions – Douglas Mawson Disney Cruise Line – Disney Adventure Oceania Cruises – Allura Princess Cruises – Star Princess Celebrity Cruises – Celebrity Xcel Royal Caribbean – Star of the Seas Participants will earn CLIA points and have a chance to win prize packs by tuning in live, collecting a codeword and completing a quiz. For more information visit Ocean Debut Showcase and register via the CLIA Members Hub. 08 January, 2025 -
MSC Cruises Announces Three Title Sponsorships Of 2025 Grand Prix Races
MSC Cruises Announces Three Title Sponsorships Of 2025 Grand Prix Races
MSC Cruises is gearing up to be the title sponsor of three Formula 1® World Championship Grands Prix in 2025, further building on the cruise line’s partnership with the prestigious motorsport. The three races will be the FORMULA 1 MSC CRUISES AUSTRIAN GRAND PRIX 2025 in June, the FORMULA 1 MSC CRUISES UNITED STATES GRAND PRIX 2025in October, and the FORMULA 1 MSC CRUISES GRANDE PRÊMIO DE SÃO PAULO 2025 in November. It is the first time that the cruise line’s brand will be included in the name of these three iconic Formula 1® Grand Prix races and is in addition to the distinct track branding as part of MSC Cruises’ Global Partner status, which has been in place since 2022. The collaboration between the two world-class brands reflects Formula 1’s continuing global growth and the continued popularity of cruising as a holiday choice. MSC Group’s luxury travel brand, Explora Journeys, will also be making an appearance at FORMULA 1 GRAND PRIX DE MONACO 2025 in May when the newest ship in the fleet, EXPLORA II, will be docked in the heart of Monaco’s famous Port Hercule, offering a prime position for avid race fans throughout race week. She will also play host to a series of spectacular events, providing a fitting venue for one of the most anticipated races and its star-studded crowd, as well as being a luxurious home-away-from-home for guests throughout the weekend. FORMULA 1 MSC CRUISES AUSTRIAN GRAND PRIX 2025 The 11race of the season, the FORMULA 1 MSC CRUISES AUSTRIAN GRAND PRIX 2025 will take place at the coveted Red Bull Ring racetrack in Spielberg, Austria from 27-29 June. It is set to be one of the most exciting races of the season with 71 thrilling laps for spectators to enjoy. FORMULA 1 MSC CRUISES UNITED STATES GRAND PRIX 2025 Since staging its first United States Grand Prix in 2012, the Circuit of the Americas (COTA) track in Austin, Texas, USA, has become a favourite spot for the sport’s fans. The For FORMULA 1 MSC CRUISES UNITED STATES GRAND PRIX 2025 will be held from 17-19 October and is sure to be an action-packed spectacle. FORMULA 1 MSC CRUISES GRANDE PRÊMIO DE SÃO PAULO 2025 The São Paulo Grand Prix is one of the most beloved events on the Formula 1® calendar, which always provides a thrilling race towards the end of the season. The race will take place from 7-9 November 2025 at the coveted Autodromo Jose Carlos Pace, also known as Interlagos, in Brazil. 03 January, 2025 -
Fred Olsen Cruise Lines flagship Bolette to feature in Susan Calmans Cruise of a Lifetime
Fred Olsen Cruise Lines flagship Bolette to feature in Susan Calmans Cruise of a Lifetime
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ flagship Bolette is to make her Channel 5 debut later this month, as presenter Susan Calman sets sail on a Cruise of a Lifetime to the breath-taking Norwegian Fjords. Susan set sail on her eight-night adventure from Liverpool, before venturing to the Norwegian ports of Olden, Ålesund, Åndalsnes and Geirganger, complete with scenic sailings of Nordfjord, Geirangerfjord and past the world-famous Seven Sisters Waterfall. Immersing herself in the Norwegian way of life, friluftsliv – which translates to open air life – Susan visited the Briksdal Glacier on tour from Olden, tried her hand at kayaking in the Brosundet canalin Ålesund, and conquered her fear of heights to take in the exceptional vantage points via the Loen Skylift and Romsdalen Gondola. She also rode the historic Rauma Line aboard the Golden Train from Åndalsnes to Bjorli, voted as one of Europe’s most scenic train journeys. On board, Susan learnt more about the cruise operation, joining guests for a behind the scenes tour to visit the food stores, laundry and galley to meet with the crew who run these vital procedures, got dressed up for formal night and even indulged in some time in the spa. The programme will be aired on Channel 5 on Friday 17th of January, and available on demand on My5 after transmission. 03 January, 2025 -
Emmy Award-Winning actor Eric Stonestreet showcases how travelers can Experience More at Sea
Emmy Award-Winning actor Eric Stonestreet showcases how travelers can Experience More at Sea
Norwegian Cruise Line®(NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel, today announced the two-time Emmy®-Award-winning actor, Eric Stonestreet, as the Company's new brand ambassador and star of its newest advertising campaign, "Experience More." The new campaign features 30 and 15-second spots highlighting the Company's recently unveiled 'Experience More' brand positioning by following Stonestreet aboard one of NCL's world-class vessels, as he immerses himself in a variety of incredible experiences. The ads reinforce the ease and flexibility of cruising with NCL to guests looking to embark on their very first at-sea vacation or loyal cruisers who love the Brand's exciting offerings and genuine service aboard its 19-ship fleet. From relaxing in the Thermal Suite of the Mandara Spa and Salon to racing through the world's only racetracks at sea, Stonestreet takes travelers on an NCL journey enjoying the onboard offerings and discovering iconic destinations in the Caribbean and Europe that the cruise line sails to. As a charismatic and relatable celebrity figure, Stonestreet brings joy to audiences through his wit, and now as the new brand ambassador, he seamlessly aligns with the Company's authentic commitment to providing lifelong memories to guests on an NCL cruise vacation and will bring to life how there is something for everyone to enjoy more of what they love. Stonestreet, a beloved screen actor best known for his work on the hit television show "Modern Family," gained global recognition for his unforgettable portrayal of Cameron Tucker, or "Cam," earning him two Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series. He has also appeared in films including "The Secret Life of Pets" and "Identity Thief," and has previously hosted Fox's reality competition series "Domino Masters." Currently, he can be seen in season two of "The Santa Clauses," one of Disney+'s most-streamed original series. "Over the last few months, we have had the pleasure of getting to know Eric as he has spent time with our team, both shoreside and onboard," said David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line. "We are very excited to have named him godfather of our newest groundbreaking vessel, Norwegian Aqua. Now, we are reaffirming our relationship with him by announcing Eric as our new brand ambassador! As the face of our new 'Experience More' Ad Campaign, we are excited for him to bring his relatability, authenticity and genuine charm as he spotlights how guests can experience more with NCL and have their very best vacation with us." From Norwegian Aqua's godfather to NCL's new brand ambassador, Stonestreet will appear in a number of advertisements and promotional materials that have already begun rolling out across the U.S. and Canada via social media, digital platforms, television, and other out-of-home mediums. The actor brings his signature charisma and relatability to the campaign while illustrating how much more value guests can expect when they vacation with NCL. The advertisement is available to watchhere. 03 January, 2025