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Norwegian Cruise Line unveils its next cutting edge vessel Norwegian LunaNorwegian Cruise Line unveils its next cutting edge vessel Norwegian Luna
Norwegian Cruise Line® (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel, today unveiled and opened for sale the next evolution of its Prima Plus Class, the all-new Norwegian Luna™. Marking the Company’s 21st ship in its cutting-edge fleet, Norwegian Luna opened for sale today for guests to choose from a variety of fun-in-the-sun voyages sailing roundtrip from Miami beginning April 4, 2026 through November 2026. Norwegian Luna will kick off its inaugural Caribbean season with two western itineraries to Roatan Island, Honduras; Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico; and Harvest Caye, Belize, the Brand’s resort-style destination. The ship will then sail seven-day cruises with calls to the beautiful Eastern Caribbean destinations of Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; and Great Stirrup Cay, NCL's private island in the Bahamas, which will feature a brand-new pier by late 2025. At 1,056 feet long, 156,300 gross tons, and accommodating approximately 3,550 guests at double occupancy, Norwegian Luna will boast an overall 10 percent size and capacity increase from Prima Class ships, Norwegian Prima® and Norwegian Viva®. Norwegian Luna will be designed as a twin sister-ship to Norwegian Aqua, the Company’s latest new vessel due for delivery in March 2025. Both ships are currently being built by renowned Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri, with interior designs across the ship created by world-class architects AD Associates, Piero Lissoni, Rockwell Group, SMC Design, and Studio Dado. “Inspired by the relationship between the moon and the tides of the ocean, we are excited to introduce Norwegian Luna as the vessel that perfectly complements her sister ship, Norwegian Aqua,” said David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line. “The debut of Norwegian Luna truly showcases our ongoing commitment to providing guests more of what they enjoy and value – a brand-new ship with the latest, innovative offerings sailing to the beautiful, tropical destinations of the Caribbean. It’s important to give our guests more to see, more to do, more to enjoy on board and ultimately more out of their cruise vacation. We can’t wait for them to experience Norwegian Luna!” Norwegian Luna’s hull art will showcase a vibrant dreamscape by ELLE, the highly acclaimed street artist from Napa, California, who has partnered with popular brand names such as Nike, Reebok and Ralph Lauren. Entitled ‘La Luna,’ the artwork is a visual exploration of humanity’s deep-rooted connection with the celestial forces in space as human beings are intrinsically linked to the ebb and flow of the moon. ‘La Luna’ will display proudly on the bow of the ship, leading guests on an extraordinary voyage and an epic journey of discovery. “I’m thrilled to partner with Norwegian Cruise Line who has been known for showcasing stunningly designed hull art across its entire fleet,” said ELLE. “It’s been an incredible experience crafting this piece and knowing my 1,056-foot piece of artwork will sail across the seas, traveling the globe for all to see.” Mirroring the upscale design and structure of Norwegian Aqua, Norwegian Luna will thrill and exhilarate guests with the NCL exclusive Aqua Slidecoaster, a first-of-its-kind hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide that will debut next year on Norwegian Aqua and become the longest and fastest slides at sea. Complete with exhilarating dual slides and a magnetic lift that propels adventurous guests through two different courses, this attraction will feature three stories of exciting twists and turns around the ship's funnel. Norwegian Luna will also feature a digital sports complex, the Glow Court, offering a variety of interactive guest activities by day and then transforming into a nightclub in the evening. Guests will also be able to continue to enjoy some of their favourite onboard experiences aboard Norwegian Luna, including The Drop, NCL's 10-story free-fall slide, and the Stadium, an outdoor space offering complimentary activities. Norwegian Luna will boast the all-new luxurious Three-Bedroom Duplex Haven Suites in the Brand's premium keycard-access-only-complex, The Haven by Norwegian®, which were first announced to debut on sister ship Norwegian Aqua. These expansive two-story suites will feature separate living and dining areas; three bathrooms; a balcony; and three bedrooms. Haven guests will continue to enjoy 24-hour butler service and a dedicated concierge team as well as access to a sprawling sundeck; an infinity pool overlooking the ship’s stern; an outdoor spa complete with a glass-walled sauna and cold room; two hot tubs; a private lounge; and an exclusive bar pouring rare spirits and vintages. A variety of NCL’s elevated guest experiences will also make their comeback on Norwegian Luna including Ocean Boulevard, the 46,000 square foot outdoor walkway which wraps around the entire ship to bring guests closer to the sea; Vibe Beach Club, the adults-only, open-air lounge; Infinity Beach which provides sweeping views of the ocean; and an expansive, upper pool deck equipped with day beds for soaking up the sun. Guests aboard Norwegian Luna can also enjoy the new dining and bar experiences of the Prima Plus Class such as Sukhothai, the Company’s Thai specialty restaurant with an eclectic menu of traditional and creative offerings and Indulge Food Hall with 10 different food stations including the plant based Planterie location. Returning NCL signature specialty and complimentary venues include Cagney’s Steakhouse; Le Bistro, the elevated French restaurant; and Onda by Scarpetta, the high-end Italian venue. In addition to the culinary offerings, guests can indulge in bar and lounge favourites for delicious imbibes at Whiskey Bar, Belvedere Bar, and Metropolitan, NCL’s modern Sail & Sustain cocktail bar which won the 2024 Vibe Vista Award for “Best Beverage Menu.” Additional guest experiences aboard Norwegian Luna will be unveiled in the upcoming new year. 23 September, 2024 -
Carnival Cruise Line unveils additional 2026 27 itineraries from US homeports
Carnival Cruise Line unveils additional 2026 27 itineraries from US homeports
Carnival Cruise Line has launched a range of new 2026/2027 cruises from the east and west coasts of the US. The new sailings will depart from Miami and Port Canaveral, Florida; Norfolk, Virginia; and San Francisco, California, across four ships: Carnival Luminosa, Carnival Horizon, Carnival Vista and Carnival Sunshine. Carnival Luminosa will homeport in San Francisco for the first time in 2026, following a 22-day Tahiti and Pacific Islands transpacific ‘Carnival Journeys’ cruise from Brisbane, Australia, in April 2026. From San Francisco, the ship will sail to Alaska from April 27 through to September 10, 2026. A series of 10-day cruises will include stops in Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan and Prince Rupert, as well as scenic glacier cruising through Tracy Arm Fjord. The ship will also sail 10 four-day Baja Mexico cruises, visiting Ensenada, from April 23 through to August 27, 2026. An extended 18-day Alaska and Japan transpacific ‘Carnival Journeys’ cruise departing San Francisco on September 20, 2026, will visit Alaskan ports and sail to Japan, with stops including Otaru and Kobe before concluding in Yokohama. Carnival Luminosa’s schedule from San Francisco is part of Carnival’s 53-sailing deployment to Alaska in 2026, which also includes Carnival Miracle and Carnival Spirit sailing from Seattle. New cruises on Carnival Horizon include a 13-day ‘Carnival Journeys’ sailing from Barcelona to Miami on June 15, 2026, visiting Alicante and Malaga, Spain; Gibraltar; as well as Carnival’s new exclusive private destination Celebration Key in the Bahamas. Carnival Horizon will homeport in Miami between summer 2026 and spring 2027, offering six- and eight-day options exploring destinations across the Caribbean. Six-day Western Caribbean itineraries will include stops at Celebration Key, Grand Cayman, Montego Bay or Ocho Rios, Jamaica. Eight-day Southern Caribbean options will call at Aruba, Curacao and either Bonaire, Amber Cove, or Celebration Key. Carnival Vista, meanwhile, will sail from Port Canaveral, with six-day cruises stopping at Celebration Key and Half Moon Cay, along with Grand Turk or Amber Cove. Eight-day sailings will also visit St. Thomas, St. Maarten, San Juan and Aruba. Guests can also sail from Norfolk on Carnival Sunshine, with four- to seven-day cruises to Bermuda and five- to seven-day cruises to the Bahamas, including stops in Half Moon Cay, Bimini, Nassau, Celebration Key and Grand Turk. The ship will also operate eight-day itineraries to the Eastern Caribbean and voyages to Canada calling at Halifax, Saint John and Sydney. A nine-day ‘Carnival Journeys’ cruise will visit Amber Cove, San Juan and St. Thomas. Fred Stein, vice president of deployment for Carnival Cruise Line, said: “In addition to extending our successful deployment schedules in Miami, Port Canaveral and Norfolk, Carnival Luminosa will bring a new experience to our seasonal homeport of San Francisco for the 2026 Alaska season. “These new sailings also introduce some truly stellar additions to our ’Carnival Journeys’ programme of longer sailings, with a transatlantic cruise from Barcelona to Miami on Carnival Horizon and Carnival Luminosa’s transpacific voyages from Brisbane to San Francisco visiting Fiji, Tahiti and Hawaii, and San Francisco to Yokohama (Tokyo) visiting Alaska and Japan.” ‘Carnival Journeys’ itineraries are a limited series of voyages with additional onboard experiences on offer. 23 September, 2024 -
Disney Treasure Conveyance
Disney Treasure Conveyance
Yesterday (18th September), the Disney Treasure completed another milestone when it was guided by tugboat down the Ems River from Meyer Werft shipyard toward open water for the first time. The ship made its way passed waving spectators, who lined the river’s shores to celebrate its departure. During the next few days, the ship will go through a series of rigorous tests, known as sea trials. The captain of the Disney Treasure, Captain Marco, will step onboard to help oversee the trials and ensure the Disney Treasure is ready for its upcoming transatlantic journey. For the latest updates on the Disney Treasure follow the Ship’s Log here: https://disneyparksblog.com/dcl/ 23 September, 2024 -
Introducing WindstarCruises co uk
Introducing WindstarCruises co uk
We're delighted to announce the launch of our first-ever dedicated UK website - WindstarCruises.co.uk. Ournew website features information about Windstar Cruises, itineraries with GBP pricing, the destinations we visit, our soon to be eight-strong fleet and all of ourcurrent special offers, with visitors directed to book via their travel agent. We're also delighted to able to add new Travel Agent Resources, to help you continue your journey sellingWindstar Cruises. With 2024 already ourbest-ever booking and sailing year, thanks to the support of you -our incredible Travel Agent partners -thiswebsite launch is the latest development in our ongoing UK growth strategy. Following ourbiggest ever ship visit programme, ourpartnership with Traveltek and now this brand new online resource, we still have much morein the pipeline aimed at growing Windstar’s profile and supporting the trade. From everyone at Windstarhere in the UK, in our head office and onboard our fleet, we are immensely grateful to the UK Trade for your support and hope this new addition will help you grow your business with the World's Best Small Ship Cruise Line. 23 September, 2024 -
Carnival concludes record breaking 2024 ship visit programme
Carnival concludes record breaking 2024 ship visit programme
Carnival Cruise Line has completed its biggest-ever UK travel agent ship visit programme. A total of 250 agents joined events onboard the 2,124-guest Carnival Legend, during which they had the opportunity to tour the ship and sample lunch at the Lido. Visits were held from June to August in Dover, Liverpool, Edinburgh and Belfast. Jess Hartley, from Paramount Cruises, said: "I cannot fault our Carnival ship visit. We had free time to explore the ship, meaning we got first-hand experience into how our clients would spend their time onboard. We were also given plenty of insight into everything Carnival, broadening our knowledge. Ship visits enable us to bring the product to life for our clients." Carnival also hosted 15 agents from Barrhead Travel for a one-off visit on Carnival Glory in May, in Barcelona. Jackie Corbett, who attended the event, said: “We had a fun-filled day onboard Carnival Glory, which was fresh from a dry dock. We had the opportunity to see a handful of newly refreshed staterooms and the updated public areas. The food was on another level - it was the best burger I have ever tasted.” Iain Baillie, vice president international sales at Carnival Cruise Line, said: “Our record-breaking ship visit programme is evidence of our commitment to the trade and we’re delighted that so many agents were able to join us this summer. There is no substitute for first-hand experience, as it enables our trade partners to develop their brand knowledge and confidently promote Carnival to clients.” Next year, Carnival Miracle will operate nine sailings from Dover, with nine, 12 and 15-day itineraries available. The line’s ship visit programme will be announced in due course. Carnival has also revealed it will operate a solar eclipse cruise as part of its ex-UK 2026 summer season. The 11-day Carnival Journeys Eclipse voyage on Carnival Legend will depart Dover on August 9, with the solar eclipse taking place on August 12. The itinerary is part of a programme of nine cruises from Dover, with nine to 12-day voyages on sale now. For more information visit GoCCL.co.uk. 23 September, 2024 -
Triple celebration for Explora Journeys
Triple celebration for Explora Journeys
Explora Journeystoday staged a triple celebration at the Fincantieri shipyard in Sestri Ponente near Genoa, Italy, as the new luxury brand continues to grow towards a total of six ships planned by 2028. EXPLORA II was delivered to become the secondship to join the luxury travel brand of the MSC Group’s€3.5 billion fleet of six vessels. The ship will set sail on her maiden journey on 16 September from Civitavecchia in Italy to Sicily, Malta and Spain. The traditional maritime event when a shipbuilder delivers the new vessel to its owner was attended by Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman of MSC Group's Cruise Division, the godmother of the ship Stefania Vago, as well as Fincantieri’s Chairman Biagio Mazzotta and the constructor’s CEO and General Manager Pierroberto Folgiero, along with representatives of MSC's construction team together with managers and workers from the shipyard. The 63,900 GT EXPLORA II will operate in the Caribbean Sea in the winter and return to the Mediterranean Sea for summer 2025.The new luxury ship has 461 oceanfront suites, penthouses and residences, six different restaurants, 12 bars and lounges, four swimming pools, and a range of wellness venues. A keel-laying ceremony for EXPLORA III also took place today at the shipyard when commemorative coins were placed inside the ship as a sign of blessing during construction and good fortune in the future by the vessel’s two godmothers, Verena Koetzle, Global Head of Public Relations for Explora Journeys and Martina Giardina, Public Area Supervisor - Fincantieri Shipyard Sestri Ponente. The liquefied natural gas (LNG)-powered EXPLORA III will enter service in 2026. LNG is a direct pathway to renewable drop in substitutes like bio-LNG and synthetic LNG. Explora Journeys’ third celebration was a steel cutting ceremony at the Fincantieri shipyard to start the construction of EXPLORA IV, which will also be fuelled by LNG, and will be completed in early 2027. EXPLORA V will join the luxury fleet in 2027 and EXPLORA VI in 2028, with a project underway for both to have large fuel cell capacity capable of transforming renewable LNG into hydrogen and significantly reducing emissions. Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman, Cruise Division, MSC Group, said,“The delivery ofEXPLORA II represents a significant milestone for Explora Journeys and the MSC Group,inour commitment to set new standards in global luxury travel at sea.This special day also sees us celebratethe coin ceremony for EXPLORA III and thestart of constructionof EXPLORA IV as we continue to deliver on our commitment to create a fleet of six best-in-class ships offering evenmore guests aluxury ocean travel experiencelike no other.” Captain Serena Melani will be the Master of EXPLORA II which marks an historic moment as a female captain to lead a ship for Explora Journeys for the second time following her role as Master of EXPLORA I. Explora II, designed and built under RINA Class, has earned several additional voluntary notations due to innovative design and construction focused on environmental sustainability and passenger comfort. It received RINA's "Green Plus" notation for comprehensive environmental performance. The ship was also awarded the "Comfort Noise and Vibration" notation for its low noise and vibration levels, enhancing onboard comfort. Additionally, it received the "Dolphin" notation for minimizing noise impact in ecologically sensitive marine areas and is certified under the Polar Code C, enabling safe navigation in Polar waters. EXPLORA II has been developed to further enhance the guest experience and, as with her sister ship EXPLORA I, embodies a fusion of elegant Swiss precision and modern European craftsmanship. In collaboration with leading superyacht and hospitality designers, every aspect of the new ship was designed to evoke an ‘Ocean State of Mind’ to reflect the Explora Journeys’ approach to luxury. EXPLORA II’s Journeys Lounge, casino and Fil Rouge restaurant have refreshed colours and materials while maintaining their original layouts and the Explora Lounge, Crema Café and Atoll Pool have all been enhanced with new design and furniture to create more space for guests. Bespoke Unopiù outdoor furniture has been added to the Helios Pool & Bar to elevate the outdoor ocean experience. The Ocean Wellness Spa has a refined new concept with updated decor and materials throughout and Australian spa brand Subtle Energies has been added. The Anthology restaurant has been redesigned to offer exceptional Italian fine-dining and EXPLORA II will also feature the first at sea Buccellati jewellery boutique to complement the luxurious onboard shopping experience. EXPLORA II will feature original artwork by Emilio Isgró and Prince Hussein Aga Khan’s ‘Marine Encounters’, an exhibition of his marine photographs showcasing diverse underwater species and ecosystems. The exquisite collection of marine photography was gifted to the MSC Foundation as part of the partnership between the MSC Foundation and ‘Focused on Nature’, reflecting a shared vision to educate and inspire action on the need to preserve marine life and biodiversity. 13 September, 2024 -
Riviera Travel to launch new river ship in 2026
Riviera Travel to launch new river ship in 2026
Riviera Travel has revealed it will introduce a new river cruise ship to the fleet in 2026. The 178-guest Riviera Resplendence will be a sister ship to Riviera Radiance, which launches next year. Riviera Resplendence will feature three dining venues, including a new restaurant called Mosaic, offering a selection of bite-sized options inspired by the rivers of Europe. Guests will be able to choose from the Market menu – comprising meat and fish dishes – or the vegetarian and vegan-focused Garden menu. Elsewhere, a split-level lounge and dining room will provide more guest space. The ship’s Grand Balcony suites will measure 32sqm, the operator’s largest ever, with a separate lounge area and balcony with seating. Superior Suites and Double Cabins with a French balcony will also be available. Other facilities include a spa and wellness area, pool, bistro with an open kitchen and a boutique gift shop. As with Riviera Radiance, the ship is also designed to qualify for the Gold Standard in the Green Awards programme for shipping, which sets out independently verified standards in safety and environmental performance. Itinerary information will be unveiled shortly. The announcement comes as Riviera has also revealed that sales for its two ships which launch next year - Riviera Radiance and Riviera Rose - are 20% up on the rest of the fleet since they went live. Will Sarson, product director at Riviera, said: “We’re thrilled to reveal this latest addition to our river cruise fleet, which further underlines our commitment to delivering a high-quality onboard experience for our guests. There will be a wealth of new facilities and features to enjoy, while we’ll also ensure we maintain the distinct elements of a Riviera ship that have proved so popular over the years. “We are determined to keep pace with ever-increasing demand for our cruises, and at the same time making certain everything we do – both on and off our ships – is unmistakably Riviera.” For more information, visitrivieratravel.co.ukor call 01283 523431. 13 September, 2024 -
Virgin Voyages Inaugural First Mate Awards and Mini Wave Initiatives
Virgin Voyages Inaugural First Mate Awards and Mini Wave Initiatives
Fresh off a week of Celebration Sailings headlined by Sir Richard Branson and Boy George, Virgin Voyages is jubilantly sailing into mini wave season by celebrating its trade partners with a series of incredible incentives and awards. Onboard the extraordinary seven-night voyage that marked Virgin’s 50+ year legacy with its most influential leaders and history makers, the award-winning brand also honoured its travel partners with the inaugural UK First Mate Awards. The new award ceremony recognised the exceptional work and dedication of both travel advisors and organisations who embody the Virgin spirit and are brilliant to do business with. The following partners were recognized as follows: Best Cruise Specialist: Iglu Cruise Best Retail Agency: Hays Travel Best Homeworker Agency: InteleTravel Rising Star: Paramount Cruises First Mate Champion: Kieran Miller First Mate Champion: Lindsay Coulter Partnership Innovation: Barrhead Travel Rising Star: Stewart Travel 12 September, 2024 -
Richard Branson Marries Three Couples in Mermazing Virgin Voyages Ceremonies
Richard Branson Marries Three Couples in Mermazing Virgin Voyages Ceremonies
Entrepreneur. Humanitarian. Kiteboarder… and now wedding officiant. Sir Richard Branson is expanding his resume as the iconic businessman helped three Sailor couples tie the knot during Virgin Voyages’ epic Celebration Sailings. While the week-long events headlined by Richard and Boy George included poolside DJ sets, stargazing with Virgin Galactic astronauts and trivia with Virgin Atlantic’s visionaries, Sir Richard – founder of the Virgin Group – took to the seas to celebrate the brand’s 50+ year history and ring in an incredible milestone for three epic couples. Flying from the Caribbean to Europe, Richard Branson officiated a series of unforgettable nuptials across the fleet, officially kicking off wedding celebrations for the award-winning, exclusively adult cruise line. Starting this fall, Virgin Sailors can book the wedding of their seafaring dream for April 2025 and beyond. Whether on-board or at sea, couples will have the long-awaited opportunity to tie the knot or celebrate their engagement, honeymoon or vow renewal in style. From the blue roofs of Santorini to the sparkling azure waters of Bimini, there are dozens of gorgeous backdrops for couples to choose as their ultimate something blue. With three curated wedding packages to choose from, the VV “I do” crew hopes to take the stress out of planning, making it simple and smooth sailing so Sailors can fully enjoy the journey. Richard Branson – married for 35 years himself – made a splash (and a toast) to the three amazing couples he helped marry during the brand’s annual Celebrations Voyages this past week: A Dominican Wedding Daze:Overlooking the jungle-covered hills of Puerto Plata, Brits Ben and Emma met on a dating app and got engaged in Las Vegas last year. Dressed in a silky ivory gown, Emma’s modelesque presence stunned Ben as they held hands and exchanged their vows on Sunday at The Perch aboard Valiant Lady. As avid Virgin Voyages fans sailing on their third cruise, meeting Richard and having him officiate their special day was a dream come true. At the Altar in Amsterdam:Virgin Voyages Crew members Alejandra and Matias shared stories of how they were destined to have a Virgin wedding - though they never dreamed that Sir Richard would play a pivotal role. After meeting in 2018, Alejandra started working for Virgin Voyages in 2022 on Valentine’s Day, a holiday heralded as the day the brand took delivery of Scarlet Lady. Following in Alejandra’s footsteps, Matias joined Virgin Voyages and the two were engaged on Resilient Lady in Santorini last May. At their sunset wedding this past Wednesday, Alejandra sparkled in an off-the-shoulder ball gown before the pair danced the night away at The Manor. Sunset Ceremonies in Spain:As Scarlet Lady arrived into Ibiza on Saturday, lovebirds Danny and Brittany shared tales of their epic, seven-year romance. Amidst a backdrop of the island’s whitewashed villas, rocky cliffs and golden sunset, Sir Richard asked if they promised to be each other’s First Mate as they navigate the epic expedition called life. In a fun, unexpected twist, Danny and Brittany surprised Richard by the sharing that they are expecting. Couples can set sail on the next chapter of their lives by submitting their interest in Virgin Voyages’ wedding packages here. For more information on Virgin Voyages and the 100+ destinations Travel + Leisure’s Best Mega-Ship Ocean Cruise Line sails to, visitwww.virginvoyages.comor call your First Mate. 11 September, 2024 -
Explora Journeys announces Godmother for EXPLORA II
Explora Journeys announces Godmother for EXPLORA II
Explora Journeys, the luxury lifestyle ocean travel brand of the MSC Group, today announced Rosalba Giugni will be the godmother of EXPLORA II, at the new ship’s official naming ceremony on 15 September 2024 in Civitavecchia near Rome, Italy. EXPLORA II is the latest addition to the Explora Journeys fleet and reflects the brand's commitment to offering unparalleled luxury ocean travel experiences. The celebratory event will follow EXPLORA II’s delivery from shipbuilder to shipowner on 12 September at the Fincantieri shipyard in Sestri Ponente near Genoa, Italy. Rosalba Giugni is the founder and president of the Marevivo Foundation, a non-partisan environmental conservation organisation committed to the preservation of marine environments that was founded in 1985. Marevivo has since grown to more than 30,000 members and has become an important player in the Italian environmental sector. Born of a shared vision between Captain Gianluigi Aponte, founder and chairman of the MSC Group, and Rosalba Giugni for marine conservation education in the Mediterranean Sea area, Marevivo’s partnership with the MSC Group has been stewarded by the MSC Foundation since 2019. Beyond empowering children, youth and the next generation of maritime professionals, Rosalba’s work encompasses various aspects of the marine ecosystem, from fishing to maritime property, tourism, commercial shipping and recreational boating. She has been instrumental in the creation of marine reserves, the promotion of international campaigns, and the development of legislation to protect marine ecosystems. Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman – Cruise Division, MSC Group,said:“We are honoured to have Rosalba Giugni as the godmother of Explora Journeys’ magnificent new luxury ship, symbolising the dedication of the MSC Group and our MSC Foundation to preserve the natural beauty of the oceans that are fundamental to our journeys around the world. Her commitment to marine conservation and the protection of the sea makes her an inspiration to us all. Rosalba`s passion for the sea extends to scientific dissemination and public advocacy, making her a fitting godmother for EXPLORA II.” Rosalba Giugni,Founder and President of Marevivoadded:“I am deeply honoured to be named the godmother of EXPLORA II. This role holds special significance for me, as it reflects our shared commitment to experiencing the world in a meaningful and respectful way. I am pleased to support Explora Journeys and the MSC Group in promoting and advancing a cultural shift towards greater protection of our precious marine ecosystem. Our future is tied to the health of the sea, and its wellbeing depends on the choices we make. The climate crisis is a clear warning: we are out of time. The ecological transition needs to begin now, tomorrow may already be too late.” Guests attending the event on 15 September in Civitavecchia can expect a blend of maritime traditions and glamorous moments including performances, vibrant entertainment and culinary delights celebrating the Ocean State of Mind. EXPLORA II will depart the following day for her 7-night maiden journeyto Tarragona, Spain, offering the luxury ship’s first guests an incredible Mediterranean sailing visiting Sorrento, Lipari (Aeolian Islands), Trapani (Sicily) and Siracusa (Sicily) in Italy and Valletta, Malta. 11 September, 2024