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AE Expeditions Appoints New Business Development Sales SupportAE Expeditions Appoints New Business Development Sales Support
AE Expeditions (part of Aurora Expeditions), the award-winning Australian-owned expedition travel company, has today announced the appointment of Bethany Brown as the company’s new Business Development Sales Support EMEA. Bethany has more than 13 years experience in the travel industry, including seven years at Blue Bay Travel. She joins the UK-based sales team, led by Sales Director Andrew Turner, joining Senior Business Development Managers Katie Harber and Andy Tait. In this role, she will assist the team with the development of industry partnerships, agent engagement and training. Commenting on her appointment, Beth said: “I’m delighted to be joining one of the industry’s leading expedition cruise brands and am excited to be contributing to the growth of the brand. Adventure travel is a passion of mine and the lifechanging experiences that AE Expeditions offers along with their incredible brand messaging is a perfect fit.” Sales Director EMEA, Andrew Turner commented “Bethany has a great deal of experience in the travel and trade industry, and I am confident that she will be an incredible addition to the UK sales team. Bethany’s passion and values perfectly align with AE Expeditions and we look forward to welcoming her to the team.” For more information about AE Expeditions, visit www.aexpeditions.co.uk 16 December, 2024 -
Carnival and Holland America Line reveal enhancements to Half Moon Cay
Carnival and Holland America Line reveal enhancements to Half Moon Cay
Carnival Cruise Line and Holland America Line have jointly revealed that Half Moon Cay will be renamed RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay, as part of a series of enhancements. The private island destination, located in the Bahamas, will feature a new pier on the north side of the island to allow Carnival’s Excel class ships to dock there for the first time. Additionally, the north side will feature a new tram service and separate shore excursion pier, expanded lounging areas, new cabanas, two lunch venues and a variety of island-themed bars. The existing development on the south side will include a new beach club, an updated lunch venue and renovated facilities. The enhancements will start to become available for guest use from summer 2026 and continue through to the end of the year. Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line, said: “Calling this piece of paradise RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay reinforces our commitment to preserve the attributes that make the destination so appealing as we expand access and welcome more guests to the destination’s crystal-clear waters, white-sand beaches and lush landscapes. Many of our 2026 and beyond itineraries will feature both RelaxAway and Celebration Key, providing guests with complimentary experiences enjoying both idyllic and ultimate beach days.” Beth Bodensteiner, president of Holland America Line, said: “Holland America guests have loved Half Moon Cay for its natural beauty since it opened as a port of call in 1997. The south side of the island, where Holland America has always visited, will remain the secluded paradise our guests are accustomed to and a marquee destination for almost every cruise visiting the Caribbean. The new beach club and refreshed food and beverage spaces will embrace and preserve the island’s pristine beauty while enhancing our award-winning experience.” For more information, visit carnival.comor call 0808 234 0680. 16 December, 2024 -
CLIA welcomes 100 new members at Hong Kong workshop
CLIA welcomes 100 new members at Hong Kong workshop
December 11, 2024 – Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has welcomed 100 new travel agent members to its ranks following a full-day workshop held this week at Hong Kong’s Kai Tak Cruise Terminal. The event was jointly organised by the Hong Kong Travel Agent Owners Association, CLIA, and Worldwide Cruise Terminals, with the support of Norwegian Cruise Line. It provided Hong Kong travel agents with valuable insight into the latest developments within the global cruise industry and the opportunities it presents within Asian markets. CLIA Head of International Training & Development Peter Kollar led the in-person training, giving participants an opportunity to enhance their cruise knowledge and sales techniques. The workshop included an inspection of the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal facilities and an onboard tour of Norwegian Spirit, allowing agents to gain first-hand experience of modern cruise offerings. "This workshop demonstrates the growing interest in cruising among Hong Kong travel agents," Mr Kollar said. "By providing comprehensive education and practical experience, we're equipping these professionals to better serve their clients and capitalise on a thriving cruise sector." Worldwide Cruise Terminals Managing Director Jeff Bent said the event had highlighted Hong Kong’s growing importance as a major international cruise hub. “We’re delighted to welcome CLIA back in 2024 for this important initiative,” Mr Bent said. “Having a large body of qualified travel agents able to recommend the right cruises for the right guests is critical to the success of the market in the long run, and CLIA’s industry-leading training gave participants a solid introduction plus access to ongoing learning opportunities to help them, and their guests, on their journeys.” As new participants in CLIA’s 2025 Asian Membership program, the workshop attendees gain access to CLIA’s comprehensive range of professional development and events initiatives, including extensive education programs, online tools and downloadable resources, recognition through the CLIA Certification Program, and the opportunity to attend CLIA events worldwide. 11 December, 2024 -
Windstar Opens Bookings for 2027 Japan Sailings Early
Windstar Opens Bookings for 2027 Japan Sailings Early
Windstar Cruises has experienced an unprecedented demand for its 2026 sailings in Japan aboard its newest ship Star Seeker, which joins the small ship company’s fleet in December of 2025. In response, Windstar is now opening up spring 2027 bookings for Japan earlier than planned, and adding an extra fall date, in order to meet customers’ requests for more bookable sailings in this coveted region. Traveling from Tokyo to Kyoto, Windstar’s 10-night Grand Japan itinerary packs in a variety of the country’s highlights (plus a stop in Busan, South Korea) on an intimate cruise. “Just months after announcing our 2026 plans in Japan, we’re nearly sold out,” says Windstar Cruises’ Chief Commercial Officer Janet Bava. “The combination of our return to Asia for the first time since 2023, along with the anticipation of a new ship and the fact that Japan is now one of the world’s most visited countries, has created an excitement for this region that we have not seen before.” Star Seeker will cross the Pacific from Alaska to Japan in early September of 2026, where Windstar will bring back its popular Grand Japan itinerary on five dates through October. The spring 2027 sailings will take place on seven dates from March through May. Grand Japan highlights include scenic cruising the Inland Sea; sailing around the abandoned island of Hashima; visiting the Peace Memorial Parks of Nagasaki and Hiroshima; and calling on smaller ports like Takamatsu (famous for its gardens and Udon) and Karatsu, including its incredible castle. Cruisers can extend their stay with the Kyoto & the Zen of Japan Cruise Tour, featuring inland tours to Kyoto where guests can bathe in hot springs, experience a traditional tea ceremony, and visit the Golden Pavilion. Of course spring dates mean the potential to experience Japan’s famed cherry blossoms, and Star Seeker’s accommodations are poised for ample spring season sightseeing as most have balconies and infinity windows. Along with the announcement, Windstar is offering an Early Booking Offer including a Complimentary Upgrade to All-Inclusive Fares, which include Wi-Fi, gratuities, and unlimited select beer, wine, and cocktails, plus $200 onboard credit per stateroom. The offer expires February 28, 2025. In addition, only a 15 percent deposit is required to book, with final payment required just 120 days before sailing. 11 December, 2024 -
AE Expeditions Unveils New 2026 27 Antarctica Season
AE Expeditions Unveils New 2026 27 Antarctica Season
AE Expeditions, a pioneer in responsible and immersive small ship exploration, has released its new Antarctica 2026-27 season, which will introduce several special edition expeditions catering to adventure enthusiasts, photographers, science and enrichment seekers and women travellers. The season features 27 unique voyages ranging from nine to 34 days, sailing aboard AE Expeditions three state-of-the-art, purpose-built expedition vessels the Greg Mortimer, Sylvia Earle and the brand-new Douglas Mawson. As a part of the new season, travellers will experience the White Continent’s pristine beauty including the Antarctic Peninsula, East Antarctica & Ross Sea, South Georgia and Falklands~Malvinas. Returning for the 2026-27 season are the best-selling ‘Spirit of Antarctica’ and ‘South Georgia, Falklands & Antarctic Odyssey’ itineraries along with fly voyages the ‘Antarctic Explorer’ and ‘Antarctic Explorer Express.’ The action-packed ‘Antarctica Active: All-Inclusive Activities’ voyage also returns, featuring camping, snorkelling, snowshoeing, paddling, and more. New for the 2026-27 season, AE Expeditions’ is introducing the 10-day ‘Taste of Antarctica’, perfect for time-conscious travellers seeking a stunning introduction to the remote destination. In addition, the season is packed with specialty voyages including the expedition travel company’s beloved Photography Expedition, a Women’s Only Voyage aboard the Sylvia Earle, and two trips in partnership with New Scientist Discovery Tours. “Antarctica continues to inspire and captivate explorers from all walks of life, and our 2026-27 season is designed to deepen those connections,” said Michael Heath, Chief Executive Officer, AE Expeditions. “With the addition of new itineraries like ‘Taste of Antarctica’ and a dynamic lineup of themed expeditions, including our new Women’s Only Voyage and itineraries in partnership with New Scientist, we are thrilled to offer travellers even more ways to immerse themselves in the beauty, science, and adventure of Antarctica. This season truly reflects our commitment to creating transformative journeys that leave both our travellers and the destinations they visit enriched.” Season highlights include: Photography Expeditions: Antarctica Through the Lens AE Expeditions' Photography Expeditions offer a chance for travellers to capture Antarctica's stunning landscapes and wildlife with guidance from top photographers. Whether using a professional camera or smartphone, guests can refine skills through Zodiac cruises, onshore excursions, and expert-led presentations with hands-on guidance both on and off the ship. Travel with Nigel Danson in 2026 Punta Arenas/Ushuaia, 12 Days, Feb. 1 - 12, 2026 on the Greg Mortimer Nigel is a YouTube creator and landscape photographer who runs workshops all over the world to share his knowledge and passion. His philosophy is to seize the moment and capture the essence of his experience. Travel with Scott Portelli in 2027 Punta Arenas/Ushuaia, 12 Days, Jan. 25 - Feb. 5, 2027 on the Sylvia Earle Scott is an international award-winning wildlife, nature, aerial and underwater photographer who has spent thousands of hours filming and photographing remote locations across the globe. New Scientist Discovery Tours New Scientist Discovery Tours, inspired by the renowned science and technology publication, offers a unique way to explore the polar regions through a scientific lens. In partnership with AE Expeditions, these experiences blend stunning landscapes with discovery and education. As a part of the voyage, guests will enjoy expert-led talks, workshops, and excursions on topics like glaciology and marine biology, joined by Marine Biologist Dr. Russell Arnott. Spirit of Antarctica: In Partnership with New Scientist Discovery Tours Ushuaia/Ushuaia, 12 Days, Dec. 7 -18, 2026 on the Douglas Mawson Join a voyage to the Antarctic Peninsula with fellow curious travellers, in collaboration with New Scientist Discovery Tours. While crossing the legendary Drake Passage, participate in lectures and workshops in the onboard Science Centre, observe seabirds in flight, or connect with your fellow passengers and expedition team. Upon reaching the Antarctic Peninsula, experience the awe-inspiring icy landscapes and encounter the region’s remarkable wildlife. Wild Antarctica featuring the Weddell Sea: In partnership with New Scientist Punta Arenas/Ushuaia, 13 Days, March 2 - 14, 2027 on the Sylvia Earle The Weddell Sea, known for its expansive sea ice, pack ice and colossal icebergs, provides a striking backdrop for a voyage in partnership with New Scientist Discovery Tours. Beyond its icy vistas, the Weddell Sea offers rich opportunities for exploring wildlife, geology and paleontology. Travelers may spot ice seals in their natural habitat and, during onshore excursions, search for ancient fossils, including gastropods, large clams and spiral-shaped ammonites. Antarctic Women’s Expedition: Fly the Drake Punta Arenas/Punta Arenas, 10 Days, Feb. 23 - March 4, 2027 on the Sylvia Earle Embark on an Antarctic adventure with like-minded women, sailing on AE Expeditions small-ship expedition vessel, the Sylvia Earle, which pays tribute to Dr. Sylvia Earle, an ambassador to conservation on the planet. In addition, the decks highlight six pioneering women in conservation and their incredible achievements and causes. AE Expeditions is proud to launch this new voyage, which is led by a female Expedition Leadership team, opening the door to new experiences, and new challenges. Taste of Antarctica Ushuaia/Ushuaia, 10 Days, Feb. 9 - 18, 2027 on the Douglas Mawson Ushuaia/Ushuaia, 10 Days, March 11 - 20, 2027 on the Greg Mortimer This expedition offers an ideal introduction to the White Continent, blending breathtaking scenery with moments of discovery. Crossing the legendary Drake Passage by sea, as early explorers once did, expeditioners will witness magnificent seabirds and approach Antarctica in a way that connects deeply with its history and grandeur. For more information about AE Expeditions visit www.aexpeditions.co.uk 10 December, 2024 -
Riviera Travel welcomes new key account manager
Riviera Travel welcomes new key account manager
Riviera Travel has announced the appointment of Alexander Davies as key account manager for the north on a 12-month fixed term contract, effective immediately. Alexander will focus on building relationships with the river cruise and escorted tour specialist’s travel agent partners. He will report to Claire Hills, national sales manager for retail and OTAs. Alexander previously worked as an account manager at Red Bull. The appointment brings Riviera’s dedicated trade team to eight people. Claire Hills said: “We are excited to welcome Alexander into our growing team. He brings a great blend of energy and innovative thinking, and his skillset will support our long-term goals as we aim to grow trade engagement in the north.” Alexander Davies said: “I’m thrilled to be joining the experienced trade sales team at Riviera Travel and look forward to working with our key partners across the northwest. Drawing on my knowledge of the region and sales expertise, I’m excited to build strong relationships with agents, helping them effectively promote our exceptional range of travel experiences and contribute to the company’s continued growth.” For more information, visit rivieratravel.co.ukor call 01283 523431. 09 December, 2024 -
Windstar Cruises Announces 2025 Mind Body and Spirit Collection Cruises
Windstar Cruises Announces 2025 Mind Body and Spirit Collection Cruises
In line with the trend of kicking off the new year with a health and wellness focus, Windstar Cruises has announced new wellness-themed cruises for 2025 – the Mind, Body, and Spirit Collection. Designed for travelers interested in embracing a holistic approach to transforming their lives, these select cruises combine immersive travel experiences, mindfulness, exercise, and healthy diet options. “Combining health and wellness with travel is a growing market, and this is a shared interest that is perfect for organizing a group around,” says Windstar’s Vice President of Sales Dianna Rom. “This is a great opportunity for our travel advisor partners to generate group business in 2025 whether it’s a friend group or people coming together with like-minded travelers for the first time.” Travelers who are embarking on a new healthful journey or wanting to continue their current path while on vacation have a new, seamless vacation option available to book just in time for New Year’s resolutions. Available on four diverse Windstar itineraries throughout the year that feature iconic destinations such as Panama Canal, Rome, Bermuda, and Lisbon, the new wellness cruises will offer guests travel experiences and amenities that combine the beauty and adventure of stunning global destinations with enriching new programs focused on health and well-being -- specialized additions to the small ship cruise line's existing wellness-focused programming and menus. Featuring special guest Debbie Dixon, a life coach, author and healer who has worked in the health and wellness industry for almost three decades, Windstar's new dedicated wellness cruises will include daily offerings of meditation, breathwork and yoga; daily inspirational and transformational talks focusing on mental, physical and spiritual health; a pop-up bar featuring a complimentary menu of elixirs that are intended to improve the mind and body; heart healthy food options with vegan and vegetarian meals and morning juice cleanses (offerings currently available on all Windstar sailings); plus, the opportunity for private sessions with Debbie Dixon (additional fee applies). 09 December, 2024 -
Fred Olsen Cruise Lines Awarded Best for Solo Travellers by Cruise Critic
Fred Olsen Cruise Lines Awarded Best for Solo Travellers by Cruise Critic
Praised for its outstanding programme for solo cruisers, including dedicated welcome drinks parties, mixed dining tables, solo traveller meet-ups and a wide range of solo cabins, the cruise line has been recognised for its commitment to solo travellers. Previously known as the Cruise Critic Editor’s Picks, the awards are now in their 16thyear, with the Best in Cruise Awards combining expert insights with traveller reviews to highlight the best in the industry. Across their fleet, Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines caters to solo travellers with a variety of dedicated cabin options, from spacious balcony suites to cosy interior cabins, ensuring comfortable accommodation for every preference. Meanwhile, a range of activities, including arts and crafts, dance hosts and exclusive solo traveller events, provides ways to socialise and meet new people. Doug Glenwright, Guest Experience Director at Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said: “We are delighted to have been recognised for our commitment to the many solo guests we welcome aboard our fleet each year. “We believe that being a solo traveller shouldn’t be a barrier to seeing the wonders of the world and experiencing all the remarkable moments that come with cruising. “Our three smaller ships offer a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with plenty of opportunities to meet like-minded guests through a variety of special opportunities that we dedicate towards our solo travellers.” This accolade follows on from Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines picking up a silver prize in the Best Cruise Line for No-Fly Cruise Holidays at the British Travel Awards and being named Favourite Specialist Cruise Line at the Wave Awards. 09 December, 2024 -
Celestyal celebrates maiden calls to Khasab Sir Bani Yas Island and Abu Dhabi
Celestyal celebrates maiden calls to Khasab Sir Bani Yas Island and Abu Dhabi
Celestyal has marked its first ever visits to Khasab (Oman), Sir Bani Yas Island (UAE) and Abu Dhabi (UAE) with plaque exchange ceremonies. The maiden calls took place as part of the cruise line’s first ‘Desert Days’ voyage - a seven-night cruise onboard the flagship, Celestyal Journey, that departed from Doha on November 30. The ceremonies were attended by representatives of Celestyal including Chris Theophilides, CEO and Captain George Koumpenas, chief operations officer, as well as local port officials. Chris Theophilides said: “We’re honoured to celebrate these milestone calls to Khasab, Sir Bani Yas Island and Abu Dhabi with plaque exchange ceremonies that mark the beginning of long and fruitful relationships. Our ‘Desert Days’ itineraries have been expertly designed to showcase the wonders of the Arabian Gulf, offering a blend of iconic destinations and hidden gems. From the thrilling attractions of Sir Bani Yas Island to the cultural richness of Khasab and the numerous experiences in Abu Dhabi, we are committed to delivering unmissable experiences. “With the addition of our second ship, Celestyal Discovery, homeporting in Abu Dhabi next year, we look forward to continuing to highlight the best the region has to offer.” Celestyal’s Arabian Gulf programme sails until March 2025, and will then feature again for a further two winter-sun seasons. Celestyal Discovery will join Celestyal Journey in the region at the end of 2025, sailing three-night long weekend ‘Iconic Arabia’ cruises round-trip from Abu Dhabi, calling at Doha and Sir Bani Yas Island, and a four-night mid-week ‘Iconic Arabia’ cruise sailing roundtrip from Abu Dhabi, calling at Fujairah, Muscat and Khasab. For more information visit celestyal.com or call 0808 258 4170. 09 December, 2024 -
MSC Cruises Offers Heartfelt Gratitude To Agents On MSC Books 10th Anniversary
MSC Cruises Offers Heartfelt Gratitude To Agents On MSC Books 10th Anniversary
MSC Cruises’ dedicated online reservations platform for travel agents, MSC Book, today reached its tenth anniversary which the company described as a ‘success’ thanks to agency support. Nearly 120,000 travel agents globally are now registered to use MSC Book, and since the online tool’s introduction in 2014 they have booked more than 10 million guests on MSC Cruises’ sailings. Antonio Paradiso, Vice President of International Sales for MSC Group’s Cruise Division and Managing Director for the UK & Ireland said: “The travel agency community provides exceptional work and support for us, and after a decade of growth and success with our trade partners we offer them our heartfelt gratitude and thank all agents that have made MSC Book what it is today. “MSC Book has evolved in the last 10 years from a helpful tool for agents to what we believe is an essential platform for travel trade partners around the world. “Our aim is to continue to grow with existing and new travel agencies and make MSC Book the ultimate tool in doing mutually successful business.” The 10-year anniversary will see special digital gifts for agents who complete a short survey to help gather travel trade insights about MSC Book. The online events for agents will be hosted by MSC Cruises’ country-based sales teams together with senior representatives from the company’s headquarters-based ecommerce team. The home and promotions pages of MSC Book have been redesigned and MSC Cruises is committed to listening further to feedback from agents to improve its functionality and make it more intuitive, efficient and easier for the travel trade to navigate. 04 December, 2024