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Carnival Cruise Line hosts Florida cruise and stay fam tripCarnival Cruise Line hosts Florida cruise and stay fam trip
Carnival Cruise Line recently welcomed 21 travel agents on a cruise and stay fam trip to Florida, in partnership with Visit Florida. Agents were first treated to a two-night stay at the Hutchinson Resort in Martin County, with activities such as a sea turtle beach walk available. The group then embarked Carnival Sunrise in Miami for a four-night cruise to the Bahamas. The sailing featured calls to Nassau and Half Moon Cay, Carnival’s private island destination. Onboard, agents were able to experience the line’s speciality dining and a 1980s-themed rock and glow party. Abigail Reilly, Virgin Holidays, said: “It was great to see the product first hand and learn what is on offer with Carnival. The service onboard was fantastic and I loved visiting the different ports of call. I have returned feeling so much more knowledgeable and I know that will help me to generate more sales.” Dennis Straetmans, of Iglu Cruise, said: “I had the best time visiting the Bahamas on Carnival Sunrise. I loved the food, entertainment and the people I met. What a fun experience.” Iain Baillie, vice-president international sales at Carnival, said: “Fam trips are crucial to our long-term relationships with our trade partners. We know that agents value the opportunity to immerse themselves in the Carnival experience, so they can bring their first-hand brand expertise to life with their customers, and we look forward to inviting many more onboard in the future.” 07 July, 2024 -
CLIA congratulates Wunambal Gaambera Traditional Owners
CLIA congratulates Wunambal Gaambera Traditional Owners
July 1, 2024 – Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has congratulated the Wunambal Gaambera Traditional Owners as they become the godparents of the new expedition cruise ship Seabourn Pursuit, marking a historic first in the cruise industry. The Wunambal Gaambera of Western Australia’s Kimberley region became the first Traditional Owners to act as godparents of a major cruise vessel at a ceremony on the weekend, highlighting a focus on preserving the cultural heritage and natural beauty of the destinations cruise ships explore. The Wunambal Gaambera are Traditional Owners of a region that includes the sea country of Ngula Jar Island (Vansittart Bay) and Yirinni (Hunter River), and the freshwater country of Ngauwudu (Mitchell Plateau). CLIA Managing Director in Australasia Joel Katz said the Wunambal Gaambera were among several Traditional Owners in Australia who were working with cruise lines to share culture with visitors while fostering tourism benefits within their communities. “Australia’s rich Indigenous culture is being celebrated in ways that provide extraordinary experiences for cruise visitors while at the same time creating opportunities for Traditional Owners,” Mr Katz said. “The Wunambal Gaambera partnership is a great example of how cruise tourism can be harnessed by remote communities around Australia’s coast.” As part its partnership with the Traditional Owners, Seabourn will make a donation to assist Wunambal Gaambera to develop a self-sustaining industry, producing authentic works of art and craft by Wunambal Gaambera artists to sell. In addition, Seabourn will also supply the Wunambal Gaambera Aboriginal Corporation with various art supplies to foster sustainable, commercial arts and craft initiatives, and will work alongside Wunambal Gaambera Traditional Owners as they share their Wanjina Wunggurr culture. Contributions by cruise lines, along with funding from Tourism Western Australia, contribute to development of tourism facilities and products for Traditional Owners to live on their country during the dry season when tourism operators can access the vast coastline of the Kimberley region. 01 July, 2024 -
PO Cruises expands regional flight departures for Caribbean winter 2025 26 holidays
PO Cruises expands regional flight departures for Caribbean winter 2025 26 holidays
P&O Cruises has added eight additional regional flights to its Caribbean fly cruise packages between November 2025 and February 2026. Responding to growing demand from customers, the new flights offer more convenient options than ever before for guests looking for a winter sun getaway. The additional flights from Cardiff, Newcastle and Glasgow bring the number of regional fly cruise departures to 24 across next winter’s season. Airports already available include Belfast, Bournemouth, Bristol, Edinburgh, London Stansted and Manchester, flying to Barbados for 14-night Caribbean holidays on board Britannia and Arvia. Example itinerary: Sail onboard Arvia for a 14-night Caribbean fly cruise from Cardiff, departing Bridgetown, Barbados on November 21, 2025, calling into Fort de France (Martinique), Basseterre (St. Kitts & Nevis), Tortola (B.V.I.), St. Maarten, overnight in Antigua, Grenada and Castries (Saint Lucia). Prices start from £1,799 per person, based on two people sharing an inside cabin. The price includes economy flights from Cardiff, children’s clubs, full board meals and entertainment. Travel agents should head towww.shinerewardsclub.com/for more information. 01 July, 2024 -
Last Month in Cruise June 2024 - Written By Sara Macefield
Last Month in Cruise June 2024 - Written By Sara Macefield
As demand for cruises continues to ride high, so new ship orders keep rolling out, reflecting the industry’s mood of optimism. A silver lining of the Red Sea security situation, which has forced lines to redeploy ships, is that compelling new itineraries are springing up for the Caribbean and Mediterranean this winter. More ships on the horizon Crystalis going for growth after signing an agreement with Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri for two new 690-passenger vessels, with the first arriving in spring 2028, whileRegent Seven Seas Cruiseshas unveiled details ofSeven Seas Prestige. Due to be delivered in 2026, and carrying 850 guests, it will be the luxury line’s first new class of ship in 10 years.Windstar Cruises’revealed that new shipStar Seekerwill sail to Alaska and Japan upon joining the fleet in 2026. Meanwhile, the keel was laid forCelebrity Cruises’fifth Edge-class shipCelebrity Xcel, whileRoyal Caribbean Internationalofficially welcomed its second new ship this year, the Oasis-classUtopia of the Seas. River news New vessels continue to flow into the world of rivers withAmaWaterwaysannouncing two newcomers for 2026,AmaMaya, which will sail the Mekong, andAmaSofiawhich will sail the Rhine and Danube.Avalon Waterwayshas announced a smattering of new sailings for 2025, including a 22-day European Masterpiece cruise on the Rhine, Seine and Rhone, whileAmerican Cruise Lineshas tripled the number of 2025 departures on its new week-long Hudson River Summer Classic sailings following high demand for the debut cruises this year. French lineCroisiEuropeis debuting two five-day Seine sailings this summer: a round-trip from Rouen that explores the history of Normandy and a round-trip Paris voyage celebrating the 150thanniversary of impressionism. Winter warmers . . . With its Arabian Gulf debut set for this November aboardCelestyal Journey, Greek lineCelestyalis expanding the programme by 30 per cent by adding second shipCelestyal Discoveryfor winter 2025. In the Caribbean,Emerald Cruisesis redeployingEmerald Azzurrato the islands from its original planned season in the Seychelles due to the security situation in the Red Sea, joiningEmerald Sakara.Windstarhas unveiled its 2025/26 programme of off-season Mediterranean sailings from October to March featuring ports such as Valencia, Crotone in Italy and Catania in Sicily that it doesn’t usually visit in summer, plus debut port, Genoa. . . . and ones to watch for 2025 & 2026 Guests can stretch back and relish these longer Grand Yachting Voyages fromSeaDream Yacht Clubfor 2025 and 2026, ranging from 21 to 35 days and covering Northern Europe, Scandinavia, the Mediterranean and the Caribbean. Meanwhile,Oceania Cruisesis promising more in-depth voyages to Polynesia than ever before for 2025 aboardNauticaandRegatta. On your marks . . . Catch this summer’s sporting action on Princess Cruises and MSC Cruises which are showing UEFA European football fixtures; Royal Caribbean, which is serving up Wimbledon matches; and Fred Olsen which is broadcasting these events and the Paris Olympics too. 01 July, 2024 -
The Only Hudson River Cruises in the World
The Only Hudson River Cruises in the World
American Cruise Lines is pleased to announce that it has completed the first few sailings of their newest itinerary, an 8-Day Hudson River Summer Classic, and already tripled the number of departures available for the cruise in 2025. American is the only cruise line in the world to offer overnight luxury river cruises exploring the Hudson River, and for years the company’s popular Hudson River Fall Foliage cruises have operated only in September and October, often selling out over a year in advance. This year, the Line tested several early summer sailings in May and June, along a new 8-Day Hudson River Summer Classic itinerary, which sails roundtrip from NYC and explores throughout the Hudson River Valley. The new cruise offers magnificent views of Manhattan’s famous skyline, sails right past the Statue of Liberty, and visits: Catskill, Albany, Kingston, Hyde Park, West Point, and Sleepy Hollow, New York, and includes excursions in NYC. American’s new Hudson River Summer Classic itinerary is similar to the Line’s popular Fall Foliage cruise, offering lots of great excursions to cultural sites throughout the Valley, but the new cruise also provides a great new way to explore the Hudson Valley during summertime—harkening back to a time when summer sojourns throughout the region were a popular vacation option for families and couples alike. The new Summer Classics are also particularly convenient for New Yorkers, with ships departing from Pier 81 right near the Intrepid. These exclusive Hudson River cruises operate aboard the newest modern riverboats and small ships in the country, which offer 100% private balcony accommodations, spacious and comfortable indoor and outdoor lounges, walking tracks, and amenities on par with the finest river cruises in the world. American’s new small ships also offer sweeping river views from nearly every space on board, as guests are transported along the river. Over the past century, the Hudson River Valley has been home to U.S. presidents, titans of industry, illustrious artists, and both famous and infamous Gilded Age characters. The region is steeped in history and offers many historic sites. Local guides and experts will lead American’s guests through all the area’s renowned points of interest, including visits to West Point Military Academy, FDR’s Presidential Library & Museum in Hyde Park, the Vanderbilt Mansion, and Lyndhurst. The itinerary also offers a guided exploration of New York City including a special World Trade Center experience, and the opportunity to visit Sleepy Hollow where Washington Irving’s most famous novel, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, was written while Irving lived on the banks of the Hudson at his home, Sunnyside. American has already completed the first several sailings of the new Hudson River Summer Classics, with the last 2024 cruise concluding in NYC tomorrow, on June 25th. Next year, the company is offering more than triple the number of summer departures, offering sailings all throughout June, July, and August, in addition to the ever-popular fall departures in late September and October. All American’s Hudson River cruises are further highlighted with onboard enrichment and nightly entertainment, all-inclusive fine dining, and complimentary cocktails every evening. 27 June, 2024 -
Royal Caribbean Newcastle Airport and Lufthansa Host Event for the North East
Royal Caribbean Newcastle Airport and Lufthansa Host Event for the North East
On June 18th 2024, Royal Caribbean International hosted 28 travel partners from the North East of England at an event in partnership with Lufthansa Group and Newcastle International Airport (NCL). The informative event showcased the game changing holidays on offer from Royal Caribbean and raised awareness of the air routes run by Lufthansa that connect NCL airport to Royal Caribbean ships across the globe, including the USA, Europe and Asia. As well as networking with like-minded agents in the area, this was an excellent opportunity for agents to meet with the teams from Royal Caribbean, Lufthansa Group and Newcastle International Airport to learn more about the various travel options available to their customers. Attendees heard from Kristi Reeser, EMEA Training Manager at Royal Caribbean International, on how to bring the cruise brand to life for their customers and were reminded of the innovative and effective sales tools available, such as the personalised digital brochure, My Royal Genie. Travel agent partners also had the firsthand opportunity to learn more about what to expect from Royal Caribbean’s up and coming ships, Utopia of the Seas, launching in July, and Star of the Seas, launching in 2025. Ellie Lamb, Sales Development Manager, North East at Royal Caribbean said, “At Royal Caribbean it is so important to us to work hand-in-hand with our trade partners to grow their knowledge and develop their understanding of our brand. We always appreciate the opportunity to demonstrate to agents the value we provide to their customers, all from their local airport”. 27 June, 2024 -
Riviera Travel unveils new discovery cruises for 2025
Riviera Travel unveils new discovery cruises for 2025
Riviera Travel has added two ‘discovery cruises’ to its 2025 European river cruise programme. The four-day itineraries will both depart in March 2025 and have been designed to offer all the hallmarks of a Riviera cruise over a shorter duration. The ‘Rhine Gorge & Cologne Discovery’ voyage will feature guided tours of Rüdesheim and Cologne, and the opportunity to sail through the Rhine Gorge. Prices start from £799pp, including return flights or Eurostar, with regional options, and a free superior drinks package. The ‘Seine, Paris & Monet’s Garden Discovery’ cruise includes a visit to Monet's house and garden in Giverny, a tour of Paris and scenic cruising along the Seine. Prices start from £799pp, including return flights or Eurostar with regional options, and a free superior drinks package. Will Sarson, head of product cruise and long haul at Riviera, said: “The introduction of these cruises gives guests who want to sample a river sailing the opportunity to experience the wonders of a European getaway. From Monet’s garden to the mighty Rhine Gorge, our ‘discovery cruises’ may be short but the itineraries are packed full of destination highlights and fabulous experiences.” For more information, visitrivieratravel.co.ukor call 01283 523431. 27 June, 2024 -
Holland America Line hosts largest ever trade ship visit
Holland America Line hosts largest ever trade ship visit
Over 100 agents boarded Nieuw Statendam today (June 26) for Holland America Line’s (HAL) largest ever UK trade ship visit. Agents from across the country joined in Liverpool to explore the Pinnacle Class ship. The event, hosted by HAL’s dedicated UK trade team, saw guests welcomed onboard with a brand presentation, before receiving a guided tour and three-course restaurant lunch. The 2,666-passenger Nieuw Statendam will sail from Dover in 2025, with a full season of 10 sailings throughout the summer. The ship will set sail on itineraries including to the Canary Islands, British Isles, Norway, Iceland, Greenland, Iberia and the Eastern Mediterranean. Karen Farndell, director sales & marketing for Holland America Line, said: “We’re thrilled to have so many agents joining us onboard as part of our extensive ship visit programme. First-hand product experience is simply the best training tool we can offer our agent partners, and with Nieuw Statendam sailing from Dover next year, it’s the perfect opportunity to get the trade onboard.” Emma Otter, Travel Counsellors, said: "I have excited guests looking forward to sailing from Dover on Nieuw Statendam next year and am so grateful I could spend the day onboard. This ship is perfect for guests who enjoy world-class live music, spacious indoor and outdoor spaces, immersive cruising and incredible food." David Houghton, Hays Cruise, said: “It was an exceptional day, with everything really well organised. The ship had an understated elegance and the food was superb. I would definitely advise fellow agents to join a Holland America Line ship visit.” HAL is offering eight travel agent ship visits this year, with a total of 430 places available, an increase of 23% on the 350 it had in 2023. Following the high demand for the Liverpool event, a second visit has been planned for the port, taking place August 12, onboard the 2,668-guest Rotterdam. Visits are also taking place in Dover, South Queensferry, Belfast, Newcastle and Cork. 27 June, 2024 -
Fred Olsen Cruise Lines returns to Rosyth for summer season
Fred Olsen Cruise Lines returns to Rosyth for summer season
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has arrived in Scotland for a summer season of sailing on board Balmoral. The smaller-sized ship will today set sail on her first cruise of the season from Rosyth, taking guests on a seven-night Norwegian Fjords cruise. Other destinations from June through to August include the Baltic, Scottish Isles, Iceland and Portugal’s islands. Clare Ward, Director of Product and Customer Service at Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said: “We are delighted to have returned to Rosyth for another busy cruising schedule for summer 2024. Guests joining us can look forward to a variety of cruises on board Balmoral where they can seek out native wildlife, witness spectacular natural phenomena and immerse in the local way of life. Opportunities in our hand-crafted itineraries include the opportunity to sail along the size-restricted Kiel Canal, witness thundering waterfalls and spurting geysers in Iceland and see beautiful hydrangeas when they’re in bloom in the Azores.” Guests can also look forward to a host of specially curated activities on board, from chances to spot marine wildlife with conservation charity ORCA, sampling authentic flavours from the destinations they will visit and joining an astronomer for stargazing on deck. Rob Mason, Head of Cruise at Capital Cruising, said: “Our cruise season is well underway across Scotland, and we are excited to welcome Fred. Olsen’s summer cruises into the Port of Rosyth. Sailing into Rosyth offers the perfect regional location for travellers who can depart from here and cruise directly to many brilliant destinations across Europe and further afield. This year will be our busiest cruise season on the River Forth and we are seeing cruise holidays increase in popularity in Scotland each year. We would encourage anyone who has not tried a cruise holiday, to book one of the many brilliant travel itineraries that cruise lines like Fred. Olsen offer.” 27 June, 2024 -
Crystal signs Memorandum of Agreement with Fincantieri for two new ocean ships
Crystal signs Memorandum of Agreement with Fincantieri for two new ocean ships
Crystal, the leader in exceptional cruise experiences, announced today the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with renowned Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri. This agreement marks the commencement of the construction of two groundbreaking ships that will redefine high-end travel on the seas. The 690-passenger (based on double occupancy), 61,800-gross-ton ships will feature a host of amenities and innovative designs, ensuring unparalleled comfort and indulgence for guests. Prominent architectural firms Studio Ibsen led by Prof. and Architect Adriana Granato and Studio Gem headed by Naval Arch. Giacomo Mortola and Naval Eng. Lorenzo Mortola will be leading the design efforts, along with a third international design firm yet to be appointed. The interior design will feature the most precious marbles, Italian fabrics and natural materials, offering a level of research and sophistication typically reserved for high-end private residential properties. A standout feature will be a promenade extending through the whole ships’ perimeter, similar to those loved by guests on Crystal Symphony and Crystal 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 recently announced Beefbar. Additionally, Crystal will continue its legacy of offering exclusive entertainment along with a sophisticated casino that includes an array of gaming options in an elegant setting. Wellness and relaxation will be at the heart of the new ships, with a comprehensive Spa and state-of-the-art fitness center available to all guests. Families traveling with children will appreciate a dedicated area, designed to provide engaging activities and a safe space for younger guests. 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. “This order is another milestone in the 40 years of productive collaboration between Fincantieri and my family that started with Sitmar Cruises, continued with Silversea and now is flourishing again with Crystal,” said Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio, Executive Chairman of A&K Travel Group. “Our aim is to continue setting a new standard in cruising, offering our guests an unmatched level of service and sophistication. These new ships will receive the same level of attention I have reserve to my own house,” added Cristina Levis, CEO of A&K Travel Group. “This order not only highlights the robust recovery of the cruise sector, in line with our Industrial Plan, but also reaffirms Fincantieri’s leadership, thanks to the operational excellence of our shipyards and the execution quality of our world-class supply chain,” stated Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO of Fincantieri. “We are thrilled to partner with Crystal in our pursuit of innovation and excellence, under the guidance of a shipowner who has always been close to our Group, like Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio." The expected delivery of the first ship will be in the Spring of 2028. The construction and delivery timeline on the second ship will be announced at a later date. 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. Crystal has also secured the option to build a third sister ship with delivery in 2032. To learn more about the new ships, or book any of Crystal’s exceptional itinerariesvisitcrystalcruises.com 27 June, 2024