News & Articles
Remain informed of the latest news, developments and innovations. Access to some articles is based on your regional membership.
Filters
Clear Filters
Requires Login
-
Fred Olsen Cruise Lines ship Balmoral set for dry dock in FalmouthFred Olsen Cruise Lines ship Balmoral set for dry dock in Falmouth
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ Balmoral is set to enter dry dock for a two-week refurbishment programme next month. The contract has been awarded to A&P Falmouth, part of the APCL Group, which has previously carried out works on Bolette and Balmoral. Work will include an ultra-high pressure water blast of the underwater hull, application of silicone paint to improve fuel efficiency and an overhaul of the propellors, bow thrusters, stabilisers and main engine gearbox. Samantha Stimpson, CEO of Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said: “We are proud to be working with APCL on our fifth drydock contract. Working with a UK yard means that together we are feeding directly back into the local economy, while also providing invaluable experience to A&Ps many apprentices. These programmes are vital, allowing us to complete essential maintenance to our wonderful smaller ship Balmoral, while also making a number of enhancements for our guests, and we look forward to completion of another busy and successful drydock.” Additional works will include the servicing of lifeboats, davits and crane as well as overhauls of mooring winches, fans, motors and sea valves. The signing of the dry dock contract took place in Liverpool in September. Mike Spicer, Managing Director of A&P Falmouth, said: “Our location in the southwest of England makes it an ideal destination for cruise ship maintenance, particularly for vessels operating in this region. Contracts such as these not only underscore our reputation in the industry but also contribute significantly to the local economy, supporting both our workforce and apprenticeship programmes.” A&P Tyne and Cammell Laird have also carried out significant refits of the Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines fleet in recent years. David McGinley, Chief Executive of APCL Group, said: “APCL Group is delighted to have signed this latest contract with Fred. Olsen. The combination of APCL’s strategic locations, technical expertise, project management and vital maintenance work enables our Group to complete vital maintenance work under tight time schedules – minimising the downtime of Fred. Olsen’s fleet.” 15 November, 2024 -
SeaDream Yacht Club Announces British Isles Scotland and Ireland Yachting Voyages
SeaDream Yacht Club Announces British Isles Scotland and Ireland Yachting Voyages
Boutique luxury cruise line SeaDream Yacht Club significantly increases presence in the British Isles with a series of voyages and 16 new ports of call. The 7- to 11-day yachting voyages will explore scenic landscapes and historic towns of England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Select itineraries include stops in less-frequented locations like the Shetland and Orkney Islands, as well as the Faroe Islands. SeaDream’s unique yachting approach with overnight stays and extended time in port grants guests the freedom to explore at their own pace and create a deeper connection to each destination. An exclusive selection of Yachting Land Adventures will offer guests the opportunity to visit world-renowned whiskey distilleries, legendary golf-courses or explore wildlife, nature and vibrant local communities. “We are combining incredible destinations with the distinctive SeaDream experience, creating a relaxed, unhurried experience that is a rare luxury today. There simply is no better way to explore these extraordinary places than in the comfort of a mega-yacht,” said Andreas Brynestad of SeaDream Yacht Club. The exclusive yachting voyages in August and September of 2027 will significantly increase SeaDream Yacht Club’s presence in the region, by tripling the number of voyages and ports from the nearly sold-out 2026 season. “The demand for British Isles has been beyond our expectations. We are thrilled to be back in 2027, with more destinations, more Yachting Land Adventures, and more unique ways to experience the true beauty of the region,” said Brynestad. The 2027 British Isles voyages will be operated on the newly-upgraded SeaDream I. With just 56 staterooms and suites and one crew member for every guest, guests can indulge in intimate, all-inclusive luxury while visiting some of Europe’s most captivating coastlines. 14 November, 2024 -
Silverseas first Antarctica voyage of the 2024 2025 season
Silverseas first Antarctica voyage of the 2024 2025 season
Silversea, the leading experiential luxury and expedition cruise travel brand, has kicked off its 2024/2025 Antarctica season with Silver Endeavourhosting guests on an 18-day voyage to South Georgia, the South Shetland Islands, and the Antarctic Peninsula. Between October 29, 2024, and March 10, 2025, Silversea will deploy three ships to the continent, undertaking 34 voyages in the austral summer as part of one of the broadest and most diverse Antarctica offerings in luxury expedition travel. Highlights of Silver Endeavour’sfirst Antarctica voyage of the 2024/2025 season include the moment guests witnessed a pod of approximately 50 orca whales; a landing at the very rarely visited site of Baily Head in the South Shetland Islands, which is home to approximately 45,000 pairs of chinstrap penguins; and calls in the scenic destinations of South Georgia, Wilhelmina Bay, and Neko Harbour. “We are delighted to return to Antarctica for our 2024/2025 season, sailing to many of the Polar Region’s most spectacular corners,” said Bert Hernandez, president, Silversea. “As industry pioneers, Silversea has a history of leadership and innovation in experiential luxury polar travel. On a recent scouting trip, our teams identified a total of 22 new landing sites, bringing Silversea’s total Antarctic landing sites up to 80 — meaning guests benefit from one of the most diverse expedition experiences available. With our 150-room hotel in Puerto Williams opening at the end of 2025, we are set to enhance our industry-leading Antarctica offering and continue to push industry boundaries to deliver a lifetime of vacations to our guests.” AMONG THE BROADEST, MOST DIVERSE OFFERINGS OF LUXURY ANTARCTICA EXPEDITIONS Catering to the diverse needs and preferences of an array of travelers, Silver Endeavour, Silver Wind,and Silver Cloudwill offer a range of six- to 22-day Antarctica voyages in the 2024/2025 season. Silversea’s innovative six-day Antarctica Bridge fly-cruise offerings allow guests to fly over the Drake Passage, providing a shorter travel option without compromising on the time spent in the destination. The company’s 10-day Antarctica Peninsula sailings from Puerto Williams provide the quintessential polar experience with approximately six days in the destination, while the 12-day variation extends deeper into the Polar Circle. Longer expedition options of 15-22 days allow for some of the most immersive deep dives into Antarctica and the Southern Ocean available to travelers. OPENING IN 2025: THE SOUTHERNMOST HOTEL ON EARTH Creating an unrivaled experience for guests to explore the rugged landscape of Antarctica, Silversea is developing a hotel in Puerto Williams, Chile – the southernmost city on Earth. The hotel will facilitate a uniquely frictionless journey to the continent, allowing guests to enjoy Silversea’s personalized service and warm hospitality throughout their entire travel experience. Guests embarking on the cruise line’s innovative Antarctica Bridge fly-cruise program – the fastest and most direct route to Antarctica – will fly directly to Puerto Williams from Santiago, Chile’s capital city, and then on to King George Island in Antarctica for a superior and seamless experience. ENHANCING THE EXPERIENCE WITH 15+ YEARS OF DESTINATION LEADERSHIP Having pioneered the luxury expedition cruise concept in 2008, Silversea became the first travel brand to offer luxury Antarctica expeditions. Through its learnings in the region, Silversea now offers the most enriching and personalized destination experiences available on the continent, with an industry-leading expedition team that comprises up to 28 experts in their field, knowledgeable kayak instructors, world-class onboard lectures, and some of the highest Zodiac-to-guest ratios in the industry, among other enriching features. Silversea’s expedition experts host guided walks ashore, identifying wildlife species, unique glacial and geological structures, and other fascinating features only found on an Antarctic expedition. Back on board, the team delivers insightful lectures that provide guests with an overview of the day’s sightings and experiences. One such lecture topic which has gained interest since the ship was located in 2022 is that of Ernest Shackleton and Endurance. Silversea’s talented historians bring the story of Shackleton to life, contextualized within the golden age of exploration, through captivating storytelling and visual materials. In December 2022, Nicholas Crane, former president of the Royal Geographical Society, gave a series of talks on the history of polar exploration to guests, presenting original lantern slides from the Enduranceexpedition aboard Silver Endeavour. Moreover, Captain Freddie Lighthelm - one of Silversea’s Masters - was part of the expedition team that discovered Shackleton’s ship. 14 November, 2024 -
Study Shows the Highest-Ever Global Economic Impact from Cruise Tourism
Study Shows the Highest-Ever Global Economic Impact from Cruise Tourism
November 12, 2024 (Washington, DC) – Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the leading voice of the cruise industry, shared highlights from the association’s new 2023 Global Economic Impact Study last week at the annual CLIA Cruise Forward conference in Miami. The study revealed the highest-ever global economic impact from cruise tourism and reaffirmed that 2023 surpassed 2019 as the benchmark year for cruise industry performance. The report also confirmed the cruise sector’s role as a robust job creator. In 2023, the cruise industry generated $168.6 billion in total economic impact globally, a 9% increase over 2019. Moreover, this growth in economic activity was accompanied by an increase in industry-supported jobs. According to the study, the cruise industry contributed 1.6 million incremental jobs in 2023 and paid $56.9 billion in wages, representing growth over 2019 of 37% and 13%, respectively. 77% of these jobs were land-based. Cruise also contributes $85.6 billion to global GDP, with its growth outpacing that of the global economy. These latest figures reflect the steady evolution of the cruise industry, driven by the rising popularity of cruise vacations. 31.7 million passengers sailed in 2023, an increase of 7% from the 29.7 million that sailed in 2019. “The cruise industry is an important contributor to the global economy, generating billions of dollars in economic output and supporting millions of jobs,” said Kelly Craighead, president and CEO of CLIA. “As demand for cruising continues to grow, our member cruise lines are committed to preserving the integrity, cultural heritage and beauty of treasured destinations so they can be enjoyed by residents and visitors alike.” The contribution of cruise benefits multiple sectors, including transportation, aviation, food and beverage, lodging, manufacturing, technology, agriculture, travel agencies, and a robust supply chain. “The economic impact of the industry extends long after a cruise ends, as CLIA research shows that 60% of cruise passengers return to a destination they first visited on a cruise for a longer stay,” said Craighead. Highlights of CLIA’s 2023 Global Economic Impact Study can be viewed here. The full report, along with region specific studies for the United States, Europe and Canada will be posted on CLIA’s website in the coming month. As cruise continues to grow, so does the industry’s commitment to sustainable tourism and destination stewardship. Examples of the work being done by CLIA member lines to optimize cruise tourism in the destinations they visit are featured in CLIA’s new Guiding Principles for Responsible Tourism. The publication identifies the Sustainable Development Goals to which the industry is contributing and offers a framework for ongoing cooperation and joint activities between the cruise sector, ports, and destinations to help preserve the integrity, cultural heritage, and beauty of the world’s most treasured destinations for generations to come. 13 November, 2024 -
CLIA LIVE expands to eight cities in 2025
CLIA LIVE expands to eight cities in 2025
November 12, 2024 – Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has announced an expanded CLIA LIVE program for 2025, bringing travel agent training events to eight cities across Australia and New Zealand this autumn. The 2025 CLIA LIVE series will add Christchurch and the Gold Coast to the program, which also includes Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, Auckland and Sydney. Dates have been confirmed for each city, with tickets available exclusively to CLIA members from 2 December, 2024. CLIA LIVE provides a two-day seminar format in which representatives from the world’s ocean, river and expedition cruise lines gather to explain their latest initiatives and share product developments. The events suit both new-to-cruise travel agents as well as more experienced cruise specialists looking to update their knowledge. CLIA Australasia Director of Membership & Events Marita Nosic said this year’s CLIA LIVE series would focus on the theme “Connecting Travellers to their Perfect Cruise Holiday”. “CLIA LIVE allows agents to hear from multiple cruise lines in the one place at the one time, helping them to learn more about each operator and stay up-to-date on their latest initiatives,” Ms Nosic said. “This year’s CLIA LIVE will give agents a deeper understanding of how to match clients with their ideal cruise, based on their personal preferences, budget and travelling style. It will also provide strategies for highlighting the value and unique experiences each cruise line offers, helping agents to build excitement and trust with clients.” CLIA LIVE will be held between March and May, 2025: Melbourne – Wednesday 19 March and Thursday 20 March, Oaks Melbourne on Market Brisbane – Tuesday 25 March and Wednesday 26 March, Sofitel Brisbane Central Adelaide – Tuesday 1 April and Wednesday 2 April, Pullman Adelaide Christchurch – Tuesday 8 April and Wednesday 9 April, Crowne Plaza Christchurch Perth – Tuesday 29 April and Wednesday 30 April, Novotel Perth Langley Gold Coast – Tuesday 6 May and Wednesday 7 May, QT Surfers Paradise Auckland – Tuesday 13 May and Wednesday 14 May, Four Points by Sheraton Auckland Sydney – Tuesday 20 May and Wednesday 21 May, Radisson Blu Hotel Sydney Attendees can join one or both days and will receive 30 CLIA points per day. Visit CLIA LIVE for details. 12 November, 2024 -
Riviera to celebrate agents talent and achievements with new awards ceremony
Riviera to celebrate agents talent and achievements with new awards ceremony
Riviera Travel has revealed it will host its first ever agents awards ceremony in 2025. The Riviera Travel Agents Awards will recognise the success of the operator’s retail, homeworkers and OTA trade partners across categories such as Best Newcomer, Best Cruise Agent, Best Homeworker, and Best Long-Haul and European Tour trade partner. Winners will be chosen by the senior Riviera trade team, based on performances and results in 2024. An afternoon awards ceremony will take place at The Lookout, 8 Bishopsgate, London, on April 10. Vicky Billing, head of trade and partnerships UK & Ireland at Riviera, said: “I’m delighted to officially announce the launch of the first Riviera Travel Agents Awards. Our trade partners are the lifeblood of what we do, going above and beyond to promote our products and boost awareness about Riviera. Their tireless work has been crucial in the growth of the business and now it’s our time to give back and show how much we appreciate their support. We cannot wait to celebrate the talent and achievements of our wonderful agents next April." Riviera Travel recently revealed that its trade bookings have increased by 35% year-on-year. This includes an uptick of 51% for river cruises, and 66% for dedicated solo departures across both its cruise and escorted touring product. The operator has also launched ‘Riviera Explorer’, a new e-learning platform to help travel agents improve their brand knowledge. 11 November, 2024 -
Crystal Signs Order With Fincantieri For Third Ocean Ship
Crystal Signs Order With Fincantieri For Third Ocean Ship
Crystal, the leader in exceptional cruise experiences, announced today the finalization of an order with renowned Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri for construction of a third ocean ship. This comes as a result of the option granted under the two-unit agreements announced earlier this summer. Similar to its sister ships, the 690-passenger (based on double occupancy), 61,800-gross-ton ship will feature a host of amenities and innovative designs, ensuring unparalleled comfort and indulgence for guests. Developed by renowned international architectural firms, the interior designs will use the finest materials and the best craftsmanship. A standout feature will be a promenade extending through the whole ships’ perimeter, similar to those loved by guests onCrystal SymphonyandCrystal Serenity, for leisurely strolls with stunning ocean views. Culinary enthusiasts will be delighted by a variety of dining options, showcasing a variety of world-class cuisines including Umi Uma, the only Nobu at sea as well as Beefbar, the brainchild of visionary restaurateurRiccardo Giraudialong with dishes created in collaboration with world-renowned chefMassimilianoandRaffaele Alajmo. Additionally, Crystal will continue its legacy of offering exclusive entertainment along withCasino de Monte-Carlowhich is set to debut onCrystal Symphonythis month andCystal Serenityin December. The new ships will feature all-suite accommodations, with private verandas including a popular single occupancy category, with veranda, designed for solo travelers. This commitment to comfort is complemented by one of the highest crew-to-passenger ratios in this segment, ensuring personalized service and attention to detail. “Exercising this option and agreeing to build a third ship together showcases the trust and partnership between my family and Fincantieri, dating back to Sitmar Cruises and evolving through Silversea to our present vision with Crystal,” saidManfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio, Executive Chairman of A&K Travel Group. Cristina Levis, CEO of A&K Travel Group, added, “We’re pleased to bring an expanded fleet to our guests, offering even more ways to explore the world with the extraordinary service and style synonymous with Crystal.” The announcement comes two years after A&K Travel Group acquired Crystal in 2022, marking a new chapter for the cruise line. Under A&K Travel Group’s leadership, Crystal has been focusing on enhancing its offerings both at sea and on shore and expanding its fleet to provide unparalleled experiences for its guests. 11 November, 2024 -
Seabourn unveils new expedition itineraries for 2026 2027
Seabourn unveils new expedition itineraries for 2026 2027
Seabourn, a leader in ultra-luxury cruising and expedition travel has unveiled its new 2026-2027 expedition itineraries, promising extraordinary exploration in the world’s most remote and exotic destinations. The line’s two new ultra-luxury expedition ships, Seabourn Venture and Seabourn Pursuit, are scheduled to visit up to 161 destinations in 31 countries on 24 unique sailings of 46 departures. These expedition voyages are now on sale, with dates and full itinerary details available at www.seabourn.com. “Exploring the smaller, less-travelled corners of the world in ultra-luxury style has always been a priority for Seabourn” said Natalya Leahy, president of Seabourn. “We have scouted the globe to bring our guests extraordinary experiences and create opportunities for unforgettable ‘Seabourn Moments’.” Between March 2026 and March 2027, Seabourn Venture will travel to 63 destinations across 12 countries, operating expedition experiences as well as traditional ocean voyages ranging from 10 to 25 days. Voyages include exploring Iceland, Greenland, Labrador, and the British Isles in the Northern Hemisphere, before and joining Seabourn Pursuit for another season in Antarctica, South Georgia, and the Falkland Islands. Between February 2026 and March 2027, Seabourn Pursuit will operate expedition experiences ranging from 10 to 22 days, traveling to 71 destinations in over 13 countries. The ship’s route will take it from the colourful islands of the South Pacific to the rugged splendour of Australia’s Kimberley, and then on to the remote, wildlife-filled wonders of Antarctica, South Georgia, and the Falkland Islands. Guests can also sail half-way across the world on a unique combination voyage, an 82-Day Across Three Continents: Oceania to Antarctica sailing, departing September 2, 2026, from Broome, Australia to Ushuaia, Argentina. Antarctica, South Georgia and Falkland Islands Between October 2026 and March 2027, Seabourn Venture and Seabourn Pursuit will take guests on unforgettable journeys through some of the world’s most remote and captivating destinations. The season will offer 19 departures roundtrip from Ushuaia to the Great White Continent, on sailings ranging from 10 to 12 days, as well as 20-day departures to South Georgia and the Falkland Islands. The expedition ships will sail 600 nautical miles across the famed Drake Passage, allowing guests to witness seabirds such as albatrosses gliding through the skies. In the Falkland Islands, guests will marvel at the abundant wildlife, including black-browed albatross, penguins, and striated caracaras. On the unique, alpine-like environment of South Georgia, guests can witness a sanctuary for over 450,000 pairs of king penguins. Itineraries for each ship will feature included expedition experiences led by a masterful 23-person Expedition Team comprised of academics, scientists, and naturalists. This elite team will lead scenic Zodiac cruises to admire mesmerising blue icebergs and awe-inspiring glaciers and nature walks and hikes across seldom-seen landscapes to view glaciers and dynamic wildlife. Guests will receive a complimentary PolarShield Parka by Helly Hansen. Optional kayaking and submarine excursions will also be available on the Antarctica voyages. All Antarctica voyages include a pre-cruise charter hotel stay in Buenos Aires and roundtrip charter flights to Ushuaia, from where the ship will depart. Arctic, Greenland, Iceland & British Isles In July and September 2026, Seabourn Venture will embark on remarkable voyages that showcase the seasonal transformations and breathtaking beauty of the Arctic, Greenland, Iceland, and Scotland. The 10- to 14-day itineraries will connect guests with some of the most remote and culturally significant destinations, with turnarounds in Reykjavik, Iceland; Dublin, Ireland; Kangerlussuaq, Greenland; and Halifax, Nova Scotia. Guests will have the opportunity to explore UNESCO World Heritage sites such as St. Kilda in Scotland, known as “the edge of the world,” and the ancient ruins of Hvalsey Church in Greenland, marking the last written record of the Norse people in the region. Seabourn Venture will also explore the infinite facets of Scoresbysund, the largest fjord in the world, on its 10-Day Iceland & Scoresbysund itinerary sailing round-trip from Reykjavik, Iceland. Each itinerary will offer curated included expedition experiences. Highlights include a Zodiac cruise around the serene Scottish Isles of Noss or Eigg, celebrated for their fascinating history and abundant wildlife. Guests can also explore the Isle of Man via Zodiac, to witness the vibrant bird colonies and the charming town of Douglas. Guided nature walks through iconic locations like Iceland’s Snæfellsnes National Park and the colourful seaside town of Tobermory on the Isle of Mull in Scotland further immerse guests in the rich landscapes and cultural heritage of these extraordinary regions. Optional excursions at select destinations include kayaking through tranquil Arctic waters and submarine dives that reveal the hidden wonders beneath the sea. Australia & the Kimberley Coast Between May and September 2026, Seabourn Pursuit will return to the Kimberley in Australia for its third season. Offering eight departures of the popular 10-Day Kimberley Expedition: Waterfalls & Wanjinas itineraries, Seabourn’s newest expedition ship will sail between Darwin, Northern Territory and Broome, Western Australia. Tucked along the northwestern corner of Australia, the Kimberley is one of the world’s last wild frontiers, containing everything from rugged sandstone peaks and rushing waterfalls to sunken mangrove forests. Voyages to the region offer an abundance experiences that will take travellers into the heart of this diverse environment - such as an exploration of King George Falls, the highest twin waterfalls in Australia; Zodiac explorations of rivers and sandstone gorges that wind for miles, including to the Horizontal Waterfalls of Talbot Bay; and snorkeling at Ashmore Reef. Seabourn guests will be immersed in the rich cultures of the region. Each itinerary includes a cultural visit to the remote Ngula Jar Island in Vansittart Bay, Western Australia, hosted by the Wunambal Gaambera Traditional Landowners, who are also the godparents of Seabourn Pursuit. Here, they will discover intricate Bradshaw/Gwion art. At Freshwater Cove, guests will view the aboriginal artwork of the Wanjina as honoured guests of the Traditional Landowners. And a visit to Kuri Bay, home to Paspaley's only land-based pearl farm, offers a rare insight into the fascinating world of South Sea pearling. South Pacific From April to May 2026 and September to October 2026, Seabourn Pursuit will navigate the remote islands and atolls of the South Pacific on its way to and from the Kimberley region. The ship will embark on six itineraries ranging from 11 to 22 days, with departures from San Antonio (Santiago), Chile; Darwin, Australia; Lautoka, Fiji; and Papeete, Tahiti. Each sailing is unique, guaranteeing that no two experiences are alike and allowing guests to uncover something new while exploring some of the world’s most secluded destinations. Seabourn Pursuit will offer an array of experiences that will immerse guests in the particular cultures and natural wonders of the South Pacific, whether embarking for a two-day exploration of Easter Island, Chile, to study the famed Moai statues and stroll along the pink sand beaches of the island – or encountering year-round congregations of majestic whale sharks in the stunning national park at Cenderawasih Bay, renowned for its incredible marine biodiversity. On Ambrym Island in Vanuatu, guests can witness the enchanting Rom Dance, complete with intricate masks and costumes created exclusively for this cultural celebration. Additionally, bird-watching enthusiasts can join the expedition team in Raja Ampat to search for the elusive Red Birds of Paradise, further enriching their adventure in this captivating region. Featured complimentary expeditions include Zodiac cruises and landings around the dramatic cliffs of the Juan Fernandez Archipelago, where for sightings of the endemic Juan Fernandez fur seal and pink-footed shearwaters. Guests can also enjoy snorkelling in remote and pristine reef systems, immersing themselves in the vibrant underwater world. Guided nature walks and hikes provide opportunities to connect with local cultures and landscapes, such as going ashore in Pentecost, Vanuatu, to witness the seasonal ritual of Land Diving - or exploring the bustling city of Apia in Upolu, Samoa, where guests can tour the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum and other significant sites. Mediterranean Between April and June 2026, Seabourn Venture will offer non-expedition voyages sailing across the Atlantic Ocean, through the enchanting yacht harbours of the Mediterranean, and around the Iberian peninsula. These sailings will call on 34 destinations across eight countries, with four distinct itineraries. Notably, Seabourn Venture will journey upriver to the historic city of Seville, Spain, and call at the picturesque ports of St. Malo and Dunkirk in France—destinations not featured on Seabourn's ocean ships this season. While these itineraries do not feature expedition programming, guests can immerse themselves in Seabourn's signature intimate, yacht-like atmosphere and traditional ocean cruise experience, enhanced by the exclusivity of a ship carrying only 264 guests. Exploration, Adventure, and Luxurious Comfort Both Seabourn Venture and Seabourn Pursuit offer 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 led by an expert 23-person expedition team of scientists, scholars, naturalists, and more. 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 ships are 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. During select Seabourn expedition voyages, guest can also participate in the optional new Image Masters programme, which will provide in-the-field instruction on photo composition, camera technique, editing and retouching - all led by an accomplished nature photographer. Participating guests will enjoy priority access to the onboard photographer, outings both onboard and ashore, and priority access to the Photo Studio, as well as educational programming designed to polish their photography skills. The programme takes place over 4 days during the voyage and starts at $1,500 per participant. 06 November, 2024 -
Celestyal signs official Memorandum of Understanding with Visit Qatar
Celestyal signs official Memorandum of Understanding with Visit Qatar
Celestyal has agreed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Visit Qatar. The MOU, signed at World Travel Market in London, signifies a three-year commitment to the region, promoting Qatar as a key destination among Celestyal’s guests and agent partners. Lee Haslett, chief commercial officer at Celestyal, said: "It's a privilege to sign this agreement with Visit Qatar and we would like to thank them for all their support in bringing this partnership to life. Qatar is an extraordinary destination and an ideal fit for our guests who are seeking immersive, culturally rich experiences. We look forward to working together with our agent partners to showcase everything this unique region offers.” The event coincided with the announcement of Celestyal and Visit Qatar hosting agents on a super fam in the Arabian Gulf. As well as experiencing Celestyal Journey, agent partners will attend the Qatar Grand Prix and be invited to a speaker event with David Coulthard, who competed in Formula One from 1994 to 2008, winning 13 Grands Prix across 15 seasons. Celestyal’s inaugural Arabian Gulf season sails from November 2024 until March 2025, and will feature for three years. The 1,260-guest Celestyal Journey is currently on her way to the region ready to launch the seven-day ‘Desert Days’ itinerary sailing roundtrip from Doha, calling at Bahrain, Dubai, Khasab, Sir Bani Yas Island and Abu Dhabi. Prices start at £399. Celestyal Discovery will join her fleet mate in the region at the end of 2025, sailing three-night long weekend ‘Iconic Arabia’ cruises round-trip from Abu Dhabi, calling at Doha Port, Khalifa Bin Salman port (Bahrain) and Dubai Marina port, and a four-night mid-week ‘Iconic Arabia’ cruise sailing round-trip from Abu Dhabi, calling at Fujairah, Muscat and Kasab. Prices start at £249. 06 November, 2024 -
Albatros Expeditions joins CLIA
Albatros Expeditions joins CLIA
Celestyal has agreed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Visit Qatar. The MOU, signed at World Travel Market in London, signifies a three-year commitment to the region, promoting Qatar as a key destination among Celestyal’s guests and agent partners. Lee Haslett, chief commercial officer at Celestyal, said: "It's a privilege to sign this agreement with Visit Qatar and we would like to thank them for all their support in bringing this partnership to life. Qatar is an extraordinary destination and an ideal fit for our guests who are seeking immersive, culturally rich experiences. We look forward to working together with our agent partners to showcase everything this unique region offers.” The event coincided with the announcement of Celestyal and Visit Qatar hosting agents on a super fam in the Arabian Gulf. As well as experiencing Celestyal Journey, agent partners will attend the Qatar Grand Prix and be invited to a speaker event with David Coulthard, who competed in Formula One from 1994 to 2008, winning 13 Grands Prix across 15 seasons. Celestyal’s inaugural Arabian Gulf season sails from November 2024 until March 2025, and will feature for three years. The 1,260-guest Celestyal Journey is currently on her way to the region ready to launch the seven-day ‘Desert Days’ itinerary sailing roundtrip from Doha, calling at Bahrain, Dubai, Khasab, Sir Bani Yas Island and Abu Dhabi. Prices start at £399. Celestyal Discovery will join her fleet mate in the region at the end of 2025, sailing three-night long weekend ‘Iconic Arabia’ cruises round-trip from Abu Dhabi, calling at Doha Port, Khalifa Bin Salman port (Bahrain) and Dubai Marina port, and a four-night mid-week ‘Iconic Arabia’ cruise sailing round-trip from Abu Dhabi, calling at Fujairah, Muscat and Kasab. Prices start at £249. 06 November, 2024