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Last Month in Cruise December 2024 - Written By Sara MacefieldLast Month in Cruise December 2024 - Written By Sara Macefield
Talk about finishing the year on a high. As Wave Season gathered pace, sparking a plethora of special deals, several lines reported record-breaking sales with high demand for 2025 and beyond sparking ever more exciting developments. A new ship and fresh looks Just months after unveiling its second ship,Explora Journeysrevealed details of its third withExplora IIIwhich launches in summer 2026. With 463 suites, this will be the line’s first LNG ship and will spend its inaugural season in northern Europe. There have been a host of ship makeovers withFred Olsen Cruise Line’sBalmoralemerging from a multi-million pound dry-dock revamp andMarella Cruises’Marella Discovery 2debuting upgraded cabins and new features. Meanwhile,Cunardannounced a refit ofQueen Elizabethin February/March, whileCarnival Cruise Lineis updating the newly-rebrandedCarnival AdventureandCarnival Encounterwhich are joining the line’s Down Under operation from P&O Cruises Australia. News from the rivers Krems is a new Danube port onScenic’s2025 Danube in Depth sailings, while sister lineEmeraldhas announced a string of enhancements for 2026. In addition to new shipEmerald Astra, the line has added a new Serenity of the Rhine cruise and extended the season with departures from February to December.VIVA Cruises’new 2026 programme marks the launch of its Viva Boutique premium brand and its entire fleet using HVO biofuel. Six of VIVA’s eight ships will offer year-round sailings, including a debut winter programme on the Seine.TUI River Cruisesis keeping things sweet with new culinary creations whipped up by its chefs who have been inspired by the rivers they’ve cruised on. Distant horizons Celestyalkicked off its inaugural Arabian Gulf season as flagshipCelestyal Journeyarrived in Qatar’s capital, Doha, from where it will homeport until March. Looking further ahead,Windstar Cruisesopened 2027 bookings for Japan early on its newest shipStar Seekerafter seeing unprecedented demand for 2026 voyages andMSC Cruisesput its 2027 world voyage on sale. The 2026/7 season seesAE Expeditions’new Antarctica programme with special photography and New Scientist Discovery Tours, plus an Antarctic Women’s Expedition led by a female expedition leadership team, andPrincess Cruises’Australasia series which includes the return of its popular 79-night Circle Pacific Voyage onGrand Princess. New departure ports There’s a new kid on the London block withWindstarannouncing its first series of departures from Tower Bridge aboardStar Pridein 2026 with three short taster sailings and two longer voyages to the Norwegian fjords.Celebrity Cruisesalso debuted Port Canaveral on December 3, from whereCelebrity Equinoxis offering Caribbean sailings until April 2025. Island life Landlubbers ahoy!Royal Caribbean Internationalhas unveiled details of its new private escape in the Bahamas, theRoyal Beach Club Paradise Island,due to open in December 2025.CarnivalandHolland America Lineare also enhancing their Caribbean island resort Half Moon Cay, which will be renamed RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay. For something a little different . . . Virgin Voyageshit the headlines with the industry’s first Annual Pass, enabling guests to spend 2025 hopping aboard its ships anytime and anywhere for the entire year. 02 January, 2025 -
Jazz icons Jools Holland OBE and Jamie Cullum set sail with Cunard in 2025
Jazz icons Jools Holland OBE and Jamie Cullum set sail with Cunard in 2025
Cunard is setting the tempo for music collaborations in 2025 with globally renowned jazz artists Jools Holland OBE and Jamie Cullum* headlining exclusive performances on board Queen Victoria next year. As the countdown to the New Year begins, the luxury cruise line can reveal that acclaimed musician and Hootenanny host Jools Holland OBE will feature on Queen Victoria’s eight-night Spain and Italy voyage from Southampton on 4 May to Civitavecchia on 12 May. Jools Holland, celebrated host of Later with Jools Holland and former Squeeze pianist, will perform two shows in the ship’s Royal Court Theatre. Guests can expect an extraordinary repertoire from his acclaimed career, including many iconic hits. The May sailing will be a great adventure for foodies as well as music lovers, with port calls to Cadiz (including tours to Seville), Malaga (including tours to Granada), and the enchanting island of Majorca, where Rioja and tasty tapas await. Prices currently start from £889 per person based on two sharing a Britannia Balcony stateroom. Full details can be found, here. Jamie Cullum Britain’s best-selling jazz artist and BBC Radio 2 presenter will join the 2,000-guest Queen as part of her 13-night roundtrip Atlantic Islands voyage, which departs Southampton on 21 April. The MOBO Award-winner will captivate audiences with his best known hits – including songs from breakthrough album Twentysomething. The April-May sailing features port calls to Madeira, Tenerife, La Palma, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote and the charming coastal city of Cadiz (including tours to Seville). Prices currently start from £1,649 per person based on two sharing a Britannia Balcony stateroom. Full details can be found, here. Cunard collaborations Cunard has an incredible track record of collaborating with some of the biggest names in music, with legendary Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli headlining Queen Anne’s naming ceremony in Liverpool in June. Cunard President, Katie McAlister, said: "At Cunard, we take pride in curating unique and unforgettable experience for our guests, and we can’t wait to welcome the extraordinary Jools Holland OBE and Jamie Cullum aboard Queen Victoria in 2025. Their incredible talent, showcased in the elegant surroundings of the Royal Court Theatre, will make these sailing truly unforgettable.” Jools Holland OBE commented: “I am incredibly excited about performing on Queen Victoria next year, especially as we’ll be sailing around such a beautiful part of the world. Playing on a luxury cruise ship is a new experience for me and one that I’m sure will be a lot of fun. I want my shows to be uplifting events and I hope guests on board leave the theatre with a renewed love of jazz music.” Jamie Cullum added: “I’m very much looking forward to performing for guests on board Queen Victoria in the spring. It’s been many years since I performed on a cruise ship - it’s a time that holds many great memories. There's something unique about the whole experience, playing music whilst at sea. My band and I promise everyone a fantastic night.” Agents can visit www.ShineRewardsClub.com for the latest Cunard news and information, as well as to earn Shine points for bookings and training. 31 December, 2024 -
VIVA Cruises launches 2026 programme featuring the new VIVA Boutique line and renewable fuel
VIVA Cruises launches 2026 programme featuring the new VIVA Boutique line and renewable fuel
European river cruise specialist,VIVA Cruises, has just released its 2026 programme, full of exciting news. These include the newly announcedVIVA Boutiquepremium line; a float of six ships operating all year round; and the use of HVO fuel on all ships. New: VIVA Boutique Launched earlier this year,VIVA Boutiqueis VIVA Cruises’ own boutique brand, aimed at offering a premium experience to guests. These include an extended VIVA All-Inclusive package, exclusive experiences, outstanding local onboard entertainment and an even greater culinary offer. VIVA BEYOND will be VIVA Cruises’ first VIVA Boutique ship. With a spacious sun deck and a high-quality treatment area, relaxation and well-being will be ensured for the ship’s 116 passengers. Guests will have access to three restaurants, state-of-the-art fitness equipment as well as massages and wellness offers. The new addition to the family will have more suites than any other ship in the VIVA Cruises’ fleet. Guests will be able to choose from twelve suites, four junior suites and, for the first time, ten spacious master suites. VIVA BEYOND’s maiden voyage will take place on the picturesque Seine in May 2026 – with 25 departures scheduled for the year. 2026 programme: 325 river cruises on 8 ships VIVA Cruises’ 2026 programme will include a total of 325 river cruises on 8 modern ships – all of them featuring diverse international guests and a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Six of these eight ships (VIVA ONE, VIVA TWO, VIVA ENJOY, VIVA MOMENTS, VIVA GLORIA and SWISS RUBY) will offer cruises all year round – including themed cruises from January to March, such as VIVA Cruises’ popular “wellness cruises”. In addition to the new VIVA BEYOND’s Seine programme for 2026, guests can anticipate new routes and ports, along with extended departures of popular cruises. Guests can discover the charm of the Rhine, Moselle and Main aboard one of VIVA Cruises’ smallest ships, VIVA TIARA. VIVA ONE and VIVA MOMENTS will continue to offer a range of shorter cruises on the Rhine, perfect for those new to river cruising. Due to popular demand, the number of 7-night cruises on the Danube will be also increased in 2026. VIVA TWO and VIVA ENJOY will provide year-round cruises departing from Passau and Vienna, respectively. With 13 departures on VIVA VOYAGE, VIVA Cruises will have their largest offering on the Rhône since 2018. For the first time, a winter programme on the Seine with VIVA GLORIA will be available in January and February 2026, featuring 3-night city stays in Paris and 4-night cruises, which can be combined into a 7-night Seine experience. PORTO MIRANTE will offer additional departures on the increasingly popular Douro river to meet growing demand. Fully integrated into the VIVA Cruises fleet in 2026, VIVA RUBY will continue to provide relaxed itineraries on smaller rivers and canals for seasoned travellers from February to December. Early-bird rates for the 2026 season are available until the end of 2024, which includes a complimentary shore excursion. Andrea Kruse, VIVA Cruises Chief Executive, said: “2026 will be another milestone for VIVA Cruises. We are so pleased about the fact that guests from around the globe have embraced our concept so strongly that we will be operating six ships all year round for the first time in 2026. She continued: “In addition, following our fleet expansion, we are truly excited to be launching VIVA Boutique in 2026, our new and even higher-quality product line for the most discerning passengers.” 28 December, 2024 -
Fred Olsen Cruise Lines Balmoral sets sail following multi-million-pound dry dock project
Fred Olsen Cruise Lines Balmoral sets sail following multi-million-pound dry dock project
The first guests have set sail aboard Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ newly refurbishedBalmoral, following a multi-million-pound dry dock programme. The cruise line’s smallest ship,Balmoral, entered the shipyard at A&P Falmouth on 1stDecember for a two-week programme of maintenance. On-board, the work has included a technical refurbishment of The Neptune Lounge theatre, the renovation of a number cabins and bathrooms, plus a complete refurbishment of the ship’s buffet venue, now named Thistle Restaurant - formerly the Palms Café. The new restaurant boasts a new layout, refreshed seating areas and updated buffet and drinks stations, and has been the biggest internal project. Work has also been completed to enhance the ship’s WiFi capabilities. Extensive maintenance has also been completed on exterior areas, including an ultra-high pressure water blast of the underwater hull, application of silicone paint to improve fuel efficiency and installation of new propellers and bow thrusters. It is a requirement for all cruise ships to enter a dry dock at least twice every five years, so that inspections and maintenance can be carried out to parts of the ship that are usually beneath the water. A workforce of more than 700 people helped to complete the busy programme, including 350 Fred. Olsen crew, and 30 apprentices at A&P Falmouth. 28 December, 2024 -
Carnival reveals onboard updates for Adventure and Encounter
Carnival reveals onboard updates for Adventure and Encounter
Carnival Cruise Line has revealed a range of onboard updates for Carnival Adventure and Carnival Encounter. The two ships are transferring from P&O Cruises Australia and will begin sailing with Carnival from March 2025, following a two-week wet dock. Carnival Adventure and Carnival Encounter will feature: * Carnival’s ‘Fun Squad’: The line’s onboard entertainment team will host comedy shows, deck parties and games. * Turtles Kids’ Club: A new childcare programme for children under two, offering arts and crafts, story time, dancing and sensory play. * Traditional Carnival activities such as Build-A-Bear workshops, the Conga for Kids line dance party and 1980s-themed Rock and Glow nights. The rebranded ships will continue to feature a range of P&O Cruises Australia favourites, including the exclusive retreat Byron Beach Club; Edge Adventure Park; Luke Mangan’s specialty restaurant Luke’s Bar & Grill; dining options Angelo’s and Dragon Lady; and the Blanc de Blanc show. Once rebranded, Carnival Adventure will sail year-round from Sydney, joining sister ship Carnival Splendor. Carnival Encounter will homeport in Brisbane year-round, with Carnival Luminosa joining her during the summer season. In 2025, Carnival expects to welcome 600,000 guests sailing from Sydney and Brisbane. Kara Glamore, vice-president of sales and marketing at Carnival, said: “This transition presents a unique opportunity to combine the best of P&O Cruises Australia and Carnival Cruise Line as the brand expands its footprint in Australia.” Regarding the line’s range of itineraries departing from Australia, Glamore said: “Carnival Cruise Line remains the only cruise line globally to demonstrate this level of commitment to Australia, sailing year-round and supporting thousands of local jobs while delivering unforgettable holiday experiences in Australia and the South Pacific.” 28 December, 2024 -
Carnival to mark 55th anniversary with ship meetup celebrations
Carnival to mark 55th anniversary with ship meetup celebrations
Carnival Cruise Line will mark its 55th birthday in 2027 with three celebratory ship meetup events at sea. During each of the events, several Carnival ships will simultaneously host Lido deck birthday celebrations. Guests can also expect a birthday-themed speciality cocktail, birthday cakes at restaurants, a Lido dessert buffet and themed party games and trivia. The events will take place across 11 itineraries in 2027, comprising: March 9, four ships near Celebration Key: * From Mobile: Carnival Spirit will meet during an eight-day cruise, departing March 6. * From Jacksonville: Carnival Elation will sail on a five-day cruise, departing March 6. * From Tampa: Carnival Legend will sail a six-day cruise, departing March 7. * From Port Canaveral: Carnival Freedom will sail a five-day cruise, departing March 8. March 10, three ships near RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay * From Galveston: Carnival Jubilee will sail an eight-day voyage, departing March 6. * From Tampa: Carnival Legend will sail a six-day itinerary, departing March 7. * From Baltimore: Carnival Pride will sail a seven-day cruise, departing March 7. March 13, five ships near Celebration Key * From Miami: Carnival Celebration will sail a seven-day cruise, departing March 7. Carnival Sunrise will sail a four-day cruise starting March 11 and Carnival Conquest will sail a three-day cruise, departing March 12. * From Port Canaveral: Carnival Vista will operate an eight-day journey, departing March 6, and Carnival Glory will sail a three-day cruise, departing March 12. Carnival Cruise Line began sailing from PortMiami in 1972 and now operates a fleet of 27 ships. This will grow to 29 in the spring of 2025 as the cruise line expands operations in Australia. Additionally, in 2027 a new Excel-class ship will launch, and four more new vessels will follow through to 2033. 28 December, 2024 -
AE Expeditions to host 150 agents in 2025
AE Expeditions to host 150 agents in 2025
AE Expeditions (part of Aurora Expeditions), the award-winning polar expedition company, has announced that it will host 150 UK & Irish agents on board its small ships across 2025. Arctic & Antarctica Fam Trips AE Expeditions has selected three voyages in 2025 where they will host agents, giving them the chance to experience incredible, bucket list polar expeditions first hand. A total of 24 agents, eight on each fam, will be selected to join the expeditions. Antarctic FAMS will take place in March and November 2025, the Arctic voyage will take place in July as well as self FAM trip places throughout the year. Overnight Ship Visits The company will also host two ship visits in Scotland, complete with lectures, lunch, dinner, and overnight stays onboard The Greg Mortimer, giving agents a first hand experience of some of the outstanding features that AE Expedition guests experience during a voyage. 60 agents will be invited to stay overnight on each date. The first ship visit will be held in Troon on 18th May 2025, the second visit will take place in Aberdeen on 29th May 2025. Sales Director EMEA, Andrew Turner commented “We are so excited to be able to showcase AE Expeditions’ incredible ships to valued partners in 2025. These opportunities will allow us to present to agents the experience that our customers have, and are key to maintaining and nurturing relationships across the country”. 28 December, 2024 -
Maritime Leader Bud Darr Appointed CLIA President and CEO
Maritime Leader Bud Darr Appointed CLIA President and CEO
December 20, 2024 – Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) announced today that its Global Executive Committee has appointed Charles “Bud” Darr as President and Chief Executive Officer effective February 3, 2025. Darr succeeds Kelly Craighead, who, earlier this year, announced her plans to leave the organisation at year’s end. Darr returns to CLIA, having previously held the post of Senior Vice President of Technical and Regulatory Affairs from 2010 to 2017. He joins CLIA from MSC Group where he served as Executive Vice President, Maritime Policy and Government Affairs for more than seven years. He has also held positions within the US Coast Guard, including Deputy Chief of Maritime & International Law, and he has served in the US Navy, Merchant Marine, and Coast Guard. “Bud’s proven leadership and dedication to advancing the cruise industry’s policies and environmental leadership practices make him the ideal candidate to lead us into a new era of growth and innovation,” said Jason Liberty, Chairman of the Board, CLIA. “His extensive background and understanding of the maritime industry will be invaluable assets to CLIA as we set even higher benchmarks for success, and I look forward to working with him to drive our collective mission.” In his role as President and CEO, Darr will lead the next phase of CLIA’s global strategy at an important time for the industry as the cruise sector builds on a strong and responsible growth trajectory in support of its 2050 sustainability targets. A highly respected figure in the maritime world, Darr brings exceptional maritime experience and outstanding relationships across the global cruise industry and its related trade, equipment, ports, shipbuilders, and service providers. “I am thrilled to be returning to CLIA, and I am grateful for the confidence that the Global Executive Committee and CLIA-member lines have placed in me,” Darr commented. “With the dynamic changes and opportunities ahead, this industry is poised to set new pathways and raise the bar for innovation and sustainability. I am eager to harness our collective expertise to propel us toward an even brighter future. Together, we will navigate the global complexities and reach significant milestones.” Darr will draw on his extensive experience from the broader maritime community, including his involvement with the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), BIMCO, UK Chamber of Shipping, Liberian Shipowners Council, SEA-LNG, Society for Gas as Marine Fuel, World Shipping Council, IMO World Maritime University, Cruise Safety and Sustainability Forum, and the Seamen's Church Institute (SCI), to enhance CLIA’s standing worldwide. Darr began his education in Submarine Nuclear Engineering and later obtained his formal undergraduate education at the US Merchant Marine Academy. During his service with the US Coast Guard, he studied law at the George Washington University Law School. 20 December, 2024 -
Royal Caribbean Redefines The Ultimate Beach Day With Royal Beach Club Paradise Island
Royal Caribbean Redefines The Ultimate Beach Day With Royal Beach Club Paradise Island
Royal Caribbean is bringing the ultimate beach day to The Bahamas. Opening in December 2025, Royal Beach Club Paradise Island* will be the first in the vacation brand’s Royal Beach Club Collection, combining the striking beaches of Paradise Island and Royal Caribbean’s signature experiences to create an all-inclusive beach day – and with the vibrant Bahamian spirit and culture at the heart of it all. From pristine beaches, pools for every vibe and the world’s largest swim-up bar to island-style spots for local fare and experiences featuring Bahamian artisans and live music, the next in the brand’s destination lineup is set to bring next-level chill with The Bahamas as the ultimate backdrop. Vacationers can purchase their all-inclusive day pass and cabanas starting in the spring of 2025. “The Royal Beach Club Collection is designed for every type of family and vacationer to get everything they want out of their ideal beach day – no matter the vibe they’re looking for,” said Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. “With the first-of-its-kind Royal Beach Club Paradise Island, we continue to super-serve our guests with a tailored experience at one of our most highly visited destinations, building on nearly five decades of collaboration with the community and government of The Bahamas.” Spanning 17 acres on the western end of Paradise Island, the all-new Royal Beach Club is where exclusive meets all-inclusive for Royal Caribbean vacationers and locals. With a purchase of a day pass, vacationers can enjoy access to all amenities, with everything included from the first water taxi ride to bites, drinks and everything in between. What’s in store ranges from stunning beaches and pools for every vibe to three swim-up bars, seven beach bars, more than 40 cabanas – including the one-of-a-kind Ultimate Family Cabana with personal attendant service – and more. The Ultimate Beach Day Across Three Zones Family Beach – Families of all ages can make a splash or relax in the shade at Family Beach, only steps away from The Shallow End zero-entry pool. For some friendly competition, there are beach games of all kinds from tug-of-war to paddle ball. To max out memories, vacationers can kick back to a whole new level with the Ultimate Family Cabana – a one-of-its-kind exclusive retreat with two stories of amenities, including a thrilling slide, dedicated whirlpool, frozen drink machine and more. Chill Beach – Introducing all-day relaxation, vacationers can catch endless rays poolside at The Deep End and unwind at the powdery white sand of Chill Beach. Plus, vacationers can immerse themselves in the Caribbean culture with shopping at local artisan huts or sampling different island flavors, from grilled shrimp skewers to fire engine fritters. Party Cove – The beachfront cove is the place to keep the party vibes going. Adventurers can groove to DJ-spun beats at the world’s largest swim-up bar, The Floating Flamingo, or crank up the celebration in the Party Cove VIP space, featuring personal poolside service and incredible views. Developed and operated in partnership with the Bahamian government, Royal Beach Club Paradise Island will incorporate Bahamian influence throughout the architectural design and experience including live music, local artisan shops and culinary fare. The first in the Royal Beach Club Collection is a modern, responsibly created project developed through a public-private partnership, a first-of-its-kind agreement in The Bahamas. The construction and operation of the beach club supports the Bahamian workforce through the creation of hundreds of jobs for local businesses and entrepreneurs. Starting in 2025, adventurers have more ways than one to visit Nassau and Royal Beach Club Paradise Island in The Bahamas with a combination of vacations from six cities including Miami, Fort Lauderdale and Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida; Cape Liberty (New York), New Jersey; Galveston, Texas, and Baltimore. The lineup ranges from three nights on the ultimate short getaway on Utopia of the Seas to a 7-night Oasis Class escape on Symphony of the Seas and more. Royal Beach Club Paradise Island is set to make waves as the next addition to the vacation brand’s growing lineup of destination experiences, which includes the top-rated Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas. With Royal Beach Club Cozumel joining the Royal Beach Club Collection in 2026, Royal Caribbean’s debut of Perfect Day Mexico in 2027; and the brand’s Labadee, Haiti, adventurers have more ways than one to create their perfect vacation days across the Caribbean. More information about Royal Beach Club Paradise Island and the vacation brand’s growing destination lineup will be revealed in the coming months. 16 December, 2024 -
Introducing Windstar Cruises 1st Sailing Season from Tower Bridge
Introducing Windstar Cruises 1st Sailing Season from Tower Bridge
We're delighted to announce that in 2026, we will be introducing our first Ex-UK Season, with a series of Windstar Taster Cruises sailing from Tower Bridge. Reserve one of these 2026 voyages departing from London and your clients will enjoy a complimentary All-Inclusive experience — with Wi‑Fi, unlimited wine, beer and cocktails, and gratuities, plus $200 USD onboard credit per stateroom — valued at more than £2,000 per suite on our13-day London to Edinburgh cruise. Book by February 28, 2025 to take advantage of this fantastic value for your clients. 16 December, 2024