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Azamara Cruises Introduces New Era for the Fleet with Extensive EnhancementsAzamara Cruises Introduces New Era for the Fleet with Extensive Enhancements
Azamara Cruises — the small-ship cruise line celebrated for its late nights, overnights, and Destination Immersion®— today announced Azamara Forward, an enhancement program across its fleet representing the most extensive renovations and refurbishments in the company’s history. Across the fleet, Azamara Forward brings a comprehensive series of onboard enhancements, including brand new Chef’s Table experience, a reimagined cocktail lounge, refreshed staterooms and suites, and upgraded public spaces. Additionally, debuting exclusively on Azamara Quest®, the program introduces 12 all-new premier suites exclusive to the ship. Together, these enhancements mark a bold evolution for the brand’s upscale small-ship experience.Among the highlights of Azamara Forward is an entirely new Penthouse Deck exclusively on Azamara Quest’s highest level, introducing the all-new Grandview and Panorama Suites. As Azamara Forward is launched across the entire fleet, guests will experience a newly dedicated Chef’s Table restaurant, a reimagined Discoveries Restaurant, debut of a recrafted Atlas Bar across all four ships, a full transformation of The Cabaret Lounge, thoughtfully curated updates to every stateroom and suite, and much more. Launching with Azamara Quest’s sailing on December 18, 2026, Azamara Forward marks a defining evolution for the ship and a significant step forward for Azamara’s high-end small-ship experience.“Azamara Forward is Azamara Cruises’ vision for thoughtfully elevating the onboard experience while honoring the hallmarks that have long defined the brand,” said Dondra Ritzenthaler, CEO of Azamara Cruises. “This transformation reflects years of listening to our guests and travel partners and an extraordinary amount of creativity and collaboration across our teams. From the new Panorama and Grandview Suites aboard Azamara Quest to reimagined dining and ship-wide enhancements across our fleet, Azamara Forward is designed to deepen destination immersion, elevate comfort, and create even more meaningful moments at sea. It’s celebrating our heritage while introducing new experiences to take us into the future.”Timed to debut ahead of the highly anticipated 2027 World Cruise, Azamara Quest was the natural choice to introduce Azamara Forward. The ship’s itineraries and guest demand created the ideal opportunity to unveil these enhancements and deliver an even more elevated guest experience. Azamara Onward will be the next ship to receive Azamara Forward renovations in 2027, with timelines for Azamara Journey and Azamara Pursuit to be announced at a later date. 20 January, 2026 -
December 2025 ReviewDecember 2025 Review
So 2025 ended rather like it started – on a high with the promise of new ships and reports of record-smashing performances from Carnival Corporation and Marella Cruises. More world cruises were unveiled with ever imaginative itineraries, while a host of new culinary initiatives look set to spice up cruising’s appeal.What’s newIt’s all go for MSC Cruises which signed a deal for six next-generation ships representing its debut New Frontier class, holding up to 5,400 passengers, and arriving from 2030. Royal Caribbean International opened the doors to its first beach resort, Royal Beach Club Paradise Island in the Bahamas, while Windstar Cruises took delivery of its newest all-suite 224-guest yacht, Star Seeker, ahead of its January christening in Miami. Cruising newcomer Orient Express Sailing Yachts, which welcomes its first yacht Orient Express Corinthian in June, unveiled 2027 itineraries for this and sister yacht Orient Express Olympian which launches in the same year, while Crystal unveiled renderings of suites on new 650-guest Crystal Grace, due to debut in May 2028.Food glorious foodP&O Cruises revealed a tasty tie-up with plant-based food brand BOSH! that will see new dishes added to fleetwide main dining menus, which have also been refreshed with 535 new dishes incorporated under the headings Signature Selections, Locally Inspired and Home Comforts. Foodie line Oceania Cruises’ new ship Oceania Sonata will debut fine-dining French restaurant La Table par Maîtres Cuisiniers de France and Peruvian/Japanese fusion venue Nikkei Kitchen. Regent Seven Seas Cruises is bringing more epicurean experiences aboard Seven Seas Mariner and Seven Seas Voyager with new show kitchens or “culinary theatres” where guests can join classes, lectures and demonstrations, while Marella Cruises has unveiled Marella Voyager’s fourth a la carte venue with Japanese cuisine from Umi Sushi.River world latestScenic unveiled new wine-themed river voyages along the Rhine, Danube, Rhone and through Bordeaux as part of its 2026 “A Taste of” series, while Riviera Travel celebrated the naming of its latest ship Riviera Radiance in Budapest. After joining forces last year to launch 2026 Venice and Mediterranean packages, which sold out in weeks, Uniworld and Seabourn revealed longer 15, 16 and 19-day options for 2027 aboard Uniworld’s La Venezia in the Venetian lagoon and Seabourn Ovation in the Adriatic and Aegean.A world viewGlobal voyages seem to be all the rage with Explora Journeys introducing its inaugural world cruise for 2029 on Explora I. Departing January 6, the 128-day Endless Worlds sailing departs Dubai to trace ancient trading routes on an east-to-west journey. Azamara Cruises is offering a 175-night global sailing on Azamara Onward, departing Miami on January 5, 2028, and says it will offer more late nights, overnights and countries than any other world cruise in that year. For the first time, Seabourn has introduced an expedition flavour to its 120-day Cape to Cape sailing on Seabourn Quest which leaves Miami on January 7, 2028, and includes adventurous experiences for guests in locations including Antarctica and the Chilean fjords.On the ballFootie fever promises to take hold later this year with FIFA World Cup 26, and fans can catch the action on Holland America Line, Seabourn, P&O Cruises, Cunard and Princess, which have all announced they will be broadcasting matches on their ships. 06 January, 2026 -
Seabourn and Uniworld expand their partnership for 2027, following sell-out 2026 launchSeabourn and Uniworld expand their partnership for 2027, following sell-out 2026 launch
Seabourn and Uniworld Boutique River Cruises are announcing an expansion and elevation of their industry-leading partnership in 2027 following the sell-out success of their combined ultra-luxury river and ocean cruise which will set sail on two dates in the summer of 2026.The two celebrated cruise lines collaborated in 2025 to launch Venice and the Mediterranean Sea, a global-first combination linking two of their most popular small-ship itineraries with seamless, dedicated transfers between the ships, offering guests the very best in luxury river and ocean cruising in one cohesive trip. The 2026 departures went on sale in August this year and sold out in just six weeks, so the two brands are launching more packages in 2027, featuring longeritineraries, a newer all-veranda suite ship – Seabourn Ovation – and operating in higher room categories, in response to demand. From 27 December 2025, consumers and agents will be able to book the 16-day Venice, Adriatic and Aegean Seas which brings together Uniworld’s immersive Venice and the Jewels of the Veneto cruise aboard the one-of-a-kind Super Ship La Venezia, with eight nights on board the exquisite Seabourn Ovation, sailing from Fusina (Venice) to Croatia, Malta, the Aeolian Islands, Sorrento and Civitavecchia (gateway to Rome), starting in Venice on 6 June 2027. There is also the option to add Uniworld’s Ljubljana extension, spending three days enjoying the highlights of Slovenia from the comfort of the Intercontinental Ljubljana hotel, bookable as the 19-day Slovenia, Venice, The Adriatic and Aegean Seas. A second cruise is also available, The Wonders of the Adriatic and the Venetian Lagoon, departing 5 June 2027, starting with eight nights aboard Seabourn Ovation, sailing Athens to Fusina on the Best of Italy, Croatia and Malta itinerary,before joining the Super Ship La Venezia for seven nights’ all-inclusive in Venice and her islands with Uniworld.The 2026 sailings sold out with the top-level suites going first so, for the 2027 package, accommodation categories have been elevated, leading in at Deluxe level with Uniworld and Veranda V1 with Seabourn.The campaign for the 2027 packages will launch on Boxing Day, with collateral including a 42-page brochure, enticing ship videos, tailorable social and email assets and tips for agents on how to sell these unique packages. Chris Townson, UK & Europe MD at Uniworld, said:“Our industry-leading collaboration with Seabourn is the first time that an ultra-luxury river and ocean cruise brand have combined in this way. We knew it would really resonate with our guests, but it exceeded all expectations, with 2026 departures selling out in just six weeks. So, we are launching more for 2027, this time offering longer itineraries, in higher room categories and with more capacity, because we know the appetite is there from guests to spend more to enjoy the very best experience. This valued partnership with Lynn and her team is going from strength to strength and can only be good news for our agent partners. We will continue to support them, listen to our guests and innovate, bringing new products to market to deliver 'river cruise and more’ at the very highest level.” Lynn Narraway, Vice President, UK and EMEA, Seabourn, added: “Working with Uniworld has been brilliant – it really has been the coming together of two very like-minded and aligned ultra-luxury brands. We’re excited to offer more choice and opportunity in 2027, especially aboard our stunning Seabourn Ovation which has more capacity and facilities whilst still delivering an intimate, boutique experience. It teams beautifully with the atmosphere and elegance of the Super Ship La Venezia, and we’ve made it so easy for agents to sell these two cruises by seamlessly piecing them together into one fully-commissionable cohesive package, saving agents time and leaning into the incredible demand that we know is there.”Both the Super Ship La Venezia and Seabourn Ovation offer the refined all-inclusive luxury, highly personalised service, elegant surroundings and engaging onboard entertainment for which both companies are renowned.Prices for both cruises start from £6,749 per person sharing a Deluxe cabin/Veranda 1 suite, including return flights, 16 days’ all-inclusive cruising and transfers, if booked before the end of February 2026. The programmed activities are also included during the seven-night stay on the Super Ship La Venezia. To support agents in selling the package, bespoke assets, collateral and training will all be available. Agents simply need to email [email protected] for more information. 22 December, 2025 -
Windstar Cruises Takes Delivery of New All-Suite Yacht, Star SeekerWindstar Cruises Takes Delivery of New All-Suite Yacht, Star Seeker
Windstar Cruises has officially taken ownership of its newest all-suite yacht, Star Seeker, following a handover ceremony on December 15 at the WestSEA Shipyard in Viana do Castelo, Portugal. The 224-guest yacht is the first new build in Windstar’s Star Class and marks a major milestone in the small ship cruise line’s ongoing fleet expansion.The ceremony formalized the transfer of ownership. Representing Windstar were President Chris Prelog, Chief Operating Officer Stijn Creupelandt, Chief Commercial Officer Janet Bava and Vice President of Expansion Projects John Gunner, who oversaw the shipbuilding program. Also in attendance were Captain Tom Schofield and his team who have been instrumental in preparing Star Seeker for delivery, reflecting the dedication and expertise of Windstar’s crew—an essential part of the brand’s guest experience. They were joined by senior representatives of the Portuguese shipyard that brought the yacht to life.“Taking delivery of a new ship is one of the most meaningful moments in a shipbuilding journey,” says Prelog. “From the float out to the handover, we’ve seen Star Seeker take shape with extraordinary craftsmanship. The WestSEA team and Mario Ferreira with Mystic Cruises team have been incredible partners throughout this process, and our crew, led by Captain Schofield, has worked tirelessly to ensure the yacht is delivered in exceptional condition. We cannot wait to welcome guests aboard in just a few short weeks.”“Watching Star Seeker evolve from concept to completion has been a point of pride for everyone at WestSEA,” says Ferreira. “Windstar challenged us to build a yacht that could reach new destinations, deliver exceptional comfort and operate responsibly. We’re proud to hand her over today knowing she will bring guests closer to the world in ways only a small ship can.”Star Seeker now enters its final preparations ahead of its December 2025 debut, beginning with a Maiden Voyage from Málaga, Spain, across the Atlantic to Miami, now home to Windstar Cruises’ corporate headquarters, where a christening ceremony is scheduled to take place on January 15th. Star Seeker will then venture to the Caribbean for a celebratory inaugural season before its highly anticipated return to Alaska and Japan later in the year.Designed for DiscoveryContinuing in Windstar’s tradition of intimate, destination-forward cruising, Star Seeker introduces several firsts, as well as enhancements across accommodations, dining, wellness and adventure, including:112 ocean-view suites, nearly all with a full private veranda or a floor-to-ceiling infinity window, plus two new Horizon Owner’s suites with wrap-around balconies. Expansive open decks designed for scenic views and wildlife spotting opportunities. Five dining venues, including the new Mediterranean-Asian inspired Basil + Bamboo. WorldSpa by Windstar, featuring an upper-level entrance and a full suite of transformative wellness and fitness experiences. Windstar’s newly reimagined Marina, turning the ocean into a personal playground.Star Seeker also incorporates the latest sustainability and safety technology, including tier III Nox-rated Rolls Royce engines, pump jet thrusters, forward-facing sonar, shore power connectivity, and advanced wastewater treatment systems that meet the most stringent global standards. Every element of the ship reflects Windstar’s commitment to preserving the environment while delivering unforgettable experiences.Where Star Seeker Will SailAfter her January 15, 2026 christening in Miami, Star Seeker will begin an inaugural season in the Caribbean, calling on both marquee ports and small islands that larger ships can’t reach. Early itineraries include the Dominican Republic, the British Virgin Islands, San Juan and calls to Iles des Saintes, Bequia, Mayreau, Pigeon Island and immersive experiences in colonial cities like Santo Domingo and Cartagena.Star Seeker then sails north for a full Alaska season, where the yacht’s compact size and expansive open decks are perfect for glacier viewing and wildlife encounters. Guests can kayak beside icebergs or explore by Zodiac directly from the innovative Marina supported by Windstar’s knowledgeable Expedition Guides.In late 2026 and 2027, Star Seeker will make its way to Japan, offering culturally immersive itineraries that pair marquee cities with lesser-visited destinations known for traditional arts, cuisine and local experiences. There are also exciting new destination enhancements like a brand-new Mystery Cruise, where guests embark in Hokkaido and disembark in Osaka, with each port revealed only days in advance. Japan will also feature a Destination Discovery Event in Tomonoura, where Windstar guests will explore Edo-period streets with exclusive access to samurai sword performances, tea ceremonies, calligraphy workshops, and private entry into historic residences.A New Chapter for WindstarStar Seeker will be followed by sister yacht Star Explorer, debuting in December 2026. Built with the same advanced environmental systems, the two yachts open new possibilities for itineraries in Alaska, Asia and other remote regions while expanding Windstar’s signature small-ship comfort and personalized service.Windstar Cruises is charting new territory in 2027 with the debut of Star Explorer, the fleet’s newest 224-guest all-suite yacht, designed to explore Europe the Windstar way – intimately, thoughtfully, and 180 degrees from ordinary. 15 December, 2025 -
November 2025 ReviewNovember 2025 Review
There were fireworks galore in November which exploded into life with an exciting line-up of new ship announcements that dominated the river scene, while Florida fizzed with festivities as a clutch of ocean ships debuted. Yet, it wasn’t just about partying as the industry leapt into action to help hurricane-stricken Jamaica.It’s all new on the rivers (and coasts)American Cruise Lines made waves with news of five new riverboats and five more coastal vessels by 2028 with the first, American Pioneer, having debuted in October. TUI River Cruises blessed its second Nile vessel TUI Bahareya, while AmaWaterways announced second ship, AmaMelodia, on Colombia’s Magdalena River, plus four new itineraries in its 2026 Africa Collection. Amadeus River Cruises hailed new addition Amadeus Mira to arrive in 2027, following Amadeus Aurea which enters service next year. Meanwhile VIVA Cruises unveiled an exclusive LGBTQ+ & Friends departure from Dusseldorf for World Pride next July, featuring three days in Amsterdam.Announcements and debutsAs Princess Cruises’ Star Princess and Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Xcel were named in Fort Lauderdale, Celebrity Apex launched its debut season from Port Canaveral and MSC Cruises’ MSC Seascape arrived in Texas for an inaugural Caribbean season from Galveston. The cruising giant also declared it is spending €3.5 billion on two more World Class ships for delivery in 2030 and 2031. Oceania Cruises christened Oceania Allura in Miami and revealed more details about Oceania Sonata debuting in 2027, while Crystal announced that its first new ocean ship in 25 years would be called Crystal Grace when it launches in 2028. Adding to the ranks of new ships was AE Expeditions’ latest arrival Douglas Mawson, named in Sydney.Looking ahead to 2027/28New programmes flowed with Oceania’s 2027/28 season marking its first full winter in the Mediterranean and Royal Caribbean International announcing the opening of its Royal Beach Club Santorini in summer 2027. Silversea is targeting new intimate ports offering an authentic feel in its 2027/8 Mediterranean programme, while Holland America Line’s 2027/28 Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific series contains 14 itineraries on Westerdam, Zaandam and Koningsdam with more than 100 wildlife-focused excursions. Princess Cruises revealed its largest, most diverse Caribbean programme with 31 ports, including Celebration Key which it will call at from November 2026.Snippets of interestAs fast as its first Caribbean fly-cruise season got under way, Ambassador Cruise Line unveiled its second for 2026/27 with Renaissance homeporting in Barbados. Azamara Cruises is enabling guests to ship luggage directly between their home and the ship by partnering with luggage delivery firm Ship&Play. It also unveiled a pre-cruise dining and spa reservation programme, allowing guests to book restaurants up to 150 days before departure and spa treatments up to a year in advance.Bringing some reliefProving that it’s not all about selling holidays, cruise companies jumped into action to help the stricken Caribbean isle of Jamaica after it was devastated by Hurricane Melissa. Holland America Line’s Zuiderdam brought volunteers and badly-needed supplies to Ocho Rios while Royal Caribbean International’s Rhapsody of the Seas delivered emergency relief along with MSC Cruises’ MSC Divina. Several companies have also made donations, including Norwegian Cruise Line which has pledged up to $100,000. 09 December, 2025 -
October 2025 ReviewOctober 2025 Review
This month proved there’s no stopping the flow of new ships – as fast as they arrive, a string of newbuilds step in to take their places behind them. It’s all go as more 2027 programmes are launched, revealing Southampton homeporting changes and the excitement of a London ship christening.Making an entrancePrincess Cruises’ second Sphere-class ship, Star Princess, embarked on its maiden voyage from Barcelona and Celebrity Cruises welcomed Celebrity Xcel while also revealing its sixth Edge-class ship would be called Celebrity Xcite. Crystal confirmed that construction of its first new ship in 25 years would start in May 2026, with delivery in May 2028. Scenic’s third 270-guest Discovery Yacht Scenic Ikon is to launch in April 2028 and the second of Windstar Cruises’ new all-suite yachts, Star Explorer, will be named at London’s Tower Bridge on May 31, 2027.Rivers are surgingUniworld is embarking on its largest-ever fleet expansion for 2027 with three new Super Ships – newbuilds SS Audrey, SS Marlene and SS Sao Rafael – plus exclusive sailings on Aqua Expeditions’ Aqua Blu, marking Uniworld’s debut in Singapore and Indonesia. TUI River Cruises unveiled its biggest river programme yet for 2027, featuring first new-build TUI Luzia on the Douro, while this winter the line is adding more excursions on Nile sailings. Travelmarvel’s new Nile ship Travelmarvel Sirius is to debut from September 2026 and Emerald Cruises’ reported that latest Star-Ship, Emerald Astra, was floated out in Romania ahead of its Amsterdam debut in 2027. AmaWaterways has teamed up with the upmarket Mandarin Oriental hotel group for new pre and post cruise stays.Looking ahead to 2027/28Silversea unveiled its “largest-ever” voyage collection for 2027/28, featuring a debut summer season in Japan and an unprecedented number of warm water expeditions, while Holland America Line marked its 2027/28 Asia programme on Noordam with new ports including Nagoya and Maizuru. Princess Cruises’ American West Coast offering to Mexico, Hawaii and the California coast features 70 sailings on 13 itineraries. Meanwhile Royal Caribbean International and MSC Cruises put their 2027 Alaska seasons on sale. RCI will have four ships in the region and its first cruise-tour land experiences, while MSC’s second Alaska programme is based on Seattle sailings aboard MSC Poesia. Quark Expeditions opened bookings for its Arctic 2027 and Antarctic 2027/28 seasons earlier than ever before with new itineraries and expanded science and discovery programmes.Look who’s coming to SouthamptonP&O Cruises flagship Britannia will homeport in Southampton year-round for the first time since its launch from winter 2027/8, while MSC Cruises’ MSC Meraviglia will be based at the Hampshire port from May-October 2027.New experiences at sea and ashoreCultural evenings in Ecuador, Japan, Shanghai and Helsinki are among 35 new AzAmazing Evenings offered by Azamara Cruises in 2026, while Royal Caribbean International is opening its own resort, the Royal Beach Club Santorini, next summer on the Greek island. P&O Cruises’ adult-only ships, Arcadia and Aurora, are opening up to families on selected sailings from December 2026, and Ambassador Cruise Line is wooing Greatest Hits Radio fans after teaming up with the station again to spin classic sounds on its second Greatest Hits Radio Escape II sailing aboard Ambience next March. 02 November, 2025 -
P&O Cruises to homeport Britannia year-round in Southampton for first timeP&O Cruises to homeport Britannia year-round in Southampton for first time
P&O Cruises has opened pre-registration for its winter 2027 and spring 2028 itineraries, before the programme goes on general sale from October 22.Flagship Britannia will be based in Southampton year-round for the first time since its launch in 2015, with itineraries ranging from the Atlantic islands to the Caribbean and Mediterranean.Iona will join sister ship Arvia in the Caribbean to offer 14-night fly-cruise holidays with departures from Barbados, Antigua, and new for the season, St Kitts, between October 2027 and April 2028.Azura will operate Canary Islands fly-cruises throughout the season, with calls in Madeira and Morocco, while Ventura will sail new seven-night Scandinavia cruises, including a New Year’s Eve celebration in Southampton.Arcadia and Aurora will offer a mix of itineraries to North Cape, the Baltic region and western Europe, with selected voyages available for all ages, while many will continue to be exclusively for adults.Arcadia will sail the line’s longest world cruise to date with a 124-night voyage, taking in destinations in East Asia such as Nagasaki and Tokyo.Aurora will also sail a 75-night Grand Tour in 2028, with ports of call in Brazil and Chile.P&O Cruises associate vice-president of sales and distribution, Ruth Venn, said: “We are excited to unveil P&O Cruises holidays for the winter 2027-28 season. With highlights including family-friendly holidays on Arcadia and Aurora, the return to ports from Japan to Hawaii, and Iona’s first Caribbean winter season. Collectively the new programme gives agents lots of great talking points and many new sales and marketing opportunities.” 14 October, 2025 -
Oceania Cruises Unveils Food and Wine Best New Chefs Alumni Selected as Godparents of Oceania AlluraOceania Cruises Unveils Food and Wine Best New Chefs Alumni Selected as Godparents of Oceania Allura
Oceania Cruises®, the world’s leading culinary- and destination-focused luxury cruise line, today announced Food & Wine’s acclaimed Best New Chefs franchise will serve as the official godparent of the line’s newest ship, Oceania Allura, which debuted in July 2025 and will be christened in Miami on November 13. This historic collaboration marks the first time the prestigious godparent title has been bestowed upon a culinary brand rather than an individual, underscoring Oceania Cruises’ unwavering commitment to culinary excellence, creativity, and global discovery.Representing the Food & Wine Best New Chefs franchise as godparents during the christening ceremony in Miami on November 13, 2025, are celebrated alumni Tavel Bristol-Joseph, Katie Button, Calvin Eng, Aisha Ibrahim, George Mendes, and Lawrence "LT" Smith who will officiate the time-honored tradition of breaking a Champagne bottle across the ship’s bow, bestowing good fortune on Oceania Allura and all who sail aboard her.“At Oceania Cruises, our ships are a celebration of rich culture, exceptional cuisine, and global discovery, and Oceania Allura is no exception,” said Jason Montague, Chief Luxury Officer of Oceania Cruises. “Paying homage to the Food & Wine Best New Chefs program and having its alumni represent as her godparents reflects our belief that food lies at the heart of global exploration. These visionary chefs embody the spirit of culinary excellence, and we are honored to have them join the Oceania Cruises family.”Since 1988, the Food & Wine Best New Chefs program has honored nearly 400 rising culinary stars who have redefined how we cook, eat, and connect through food. Now, for the first time, the franchise itself will serve as godparent of Oceania Allura, with a distinguished group of alumni chefs officiating the ceremony. Together, these chefs embody the program’s global legacy of innovation and creativity while championing Oceania Cruises’ commitment to epicurean excellence at sea—offering travelers unforgettable experiences centered around food and led by the world’s most celebrated chefs.“For nearly four decades, Food & Wine Best New Chefs have shaped dining in America and inspired the way we experience food,” said Tom Bair, Publisher of Food & Wine. “We’re thrilled to celebrate this legacy with Oceania Cruises, a partner that shares our passion for extraordinary cuisine and discovery, and to make this milestone christening with journeys where food is every bit as memorable as the destinations.”Oceania Cruises’ newest 1,200-guest ship promises an elevated onboard experience defined by immersive destinations and The Finest Cuisine at Sea®. With the grandeur of its signature Grand Dining Room, an expansive hands-on professional-grade Culinary Center and accompanying Chef’s Studio, and the return of Oceania Cruises’ signature French restaurant, Jacques, Oceania Allura embodies the cruise line’s commitment to culinary excellence while pushing the boundaries of innovation.Oceania Allura has twelve distinct culinary venues, including four always complimentary specialty dining venues: Jacques, pan-Asian Red Ginger, Italian Toscana, and Polo Grill, the line’s sophisticated steakhouse. New to the brand is the Crêperie, serving delicate, authentic French crêpes, delicious Belgian and bubble waffles and decadent Italian ice cream sundaes. Further underscoring its reputation for The Finest Cuisine at Sea, Oceania Allura maintains an unrivaled ratio of one chef for every eight guests, with half of the ship’s crew dedicated to culinary operations.This prestigious partnership underscores Oceania Cruises’ commitment to the enduring influence of chefs on luxury travel. This past August, 2023 Food & Wine Best New Chefs alumni Aisha Ibrahim led the line’s inaugural Best New Chefs Cruise in Alaska, treating guests to exclusive menus, live cooking demonstrations, and curated pairing experiences. By deepening its decades-long relationship with Food & Wine and honoring the Best New Chefs franchise as godparent, Oceania Cruises reaffirms its dedication to delivering exceptional culinary experiences. 14 October, 2025 -
Crystal Announces Key Dates For First New BuildCrystal Announces Key Dates For First New Build
Crystal, the leader in exceptional cruise experiences, announced today two key milestone dates in the construction of the first new ship scheduled for delivery in May 2028. This is the first new build for the brand in 25 years and under the ownership of Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group.The ship’s steel cutting will take place in May 2026, with the keel laying occurring in December 2026, officially commencing the next chapter in Crystal’s storied legacy.“Behind the scenes, our teams have been working diligently on every element of this extraordinary project—from design and craftsmanship to technical innovation. These milestones represent more than construction progress; they are a testament to our shared commitment with Fincantieri to deliver the most exceptional ship at sea, on schedule and with an unparalleled attention to detail.”Cristina Levis, CEO of A&K Travel GroupThe name of the new ship will be announced shortly, with details on her inaugural voyages and new suite categories to follow by the end of the year. Her inaugural 2028 season is set to go on sale next spring, with the waitlist opening in advance. 13 October, 2025 -
Travelmarvel to sail new ship on NileTravelmarvel to sail new ship on Nile
APT Travel Group is to return to Nile cruising with a new ship for premium arm Travelmarvel. The 62-cabin Travelmarvel Sirius is set to sail on the Egyptian river from September 2026. The new ship marks the brand’s long-awaited return to the Nile after an absence of more than a decade.Travelmarvel Sirius promises a personalised Nile cruising experience, with social spaces, a large pool and cabins reflecting the heritage and history of Nile cruising.The vessel will sail from Luxor to visit sites, including Dendera, Kernak, Esna, Edfu, Kom Ombo and Aswan. The seven-day itinerary includes a visit to the historic temples of Abu Simbel by private charter flight.APT Luxury and Travelmarvel UK & Europe managing director Paul Melinis said: “Considering our ambitions for the Travelmarvel brand, it’s only right that we offer an experience on one of the most historically significant and longest river in the world. Just as the star it’s aptly named after, we are confident that Sirius will be a trailblazer for setting the standards of Nile Cruising, with Travelmarvel’s signature standards of service, personalisation and comfort at a competitive value.” 08 October, 2025