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Between Savoir Vivre & La Dolce Vita with VIVA BoutiqueBetween Savoir Vivre & La Dolce Vita with VIVA Boutique
With VIVA Boutique, we've created a travel experience that goes far beyond the classic cruise. It combines the exclusivity of a high-quality, modern ship with the freedom of waking up every day in a new, fascinating city—all while enjoying all the amenities of a boutique hotel.Our VIVA BEYOND will bring this philosophy to the Seine in beautiful France in 2026. But for 2027, we're taking a bold step further: With the VIVA UNIQUE, we're opening up a completely new river route for our guests – the Po River in Italy. For our CEO & Co-Founder Andrea Kruse, this is a project close to our hearts, and one that's guaranteed to inspire you too.We look forward to welcoming you on board for an unforgettable journey that celebrates life!Two countries, one faceBetween French savoir vivre and Italian dolce vita, guests on our boutique river cruises experience the most beautiful blend of two lifestyles. While the VIVA BEYOND glides stylishly along the Seine through the elegance and culture of France, the VIVA UNIQUE whisks guests away on the Po River to the world of pleasure and joie de vivre of Italy. A journey that combines culinary highlights, charming cities, and Mediterranean flair – both incomparable and inspiring.At our hotel, it's all about making your stay special – and that starts right from the moment you arrive. While a welcome aperitif is served in the Junior Suite, our Beyond/Unique Suite or Suite guests can expect even more.Our Unique & Beyond Suites BenefitsBenefits in your 30m² Unique and Beyond Suites:Breakfast in your cabin – Decide whether you would like to have breakfast in your suite or in the restaurantLittle culinary touches – Enjoy local, seasonal specialties during your tripAn exclusive experience of the Unique & Beyond Suites – Join us for a unique experience. Choose between three special excursions in Italy, while a first-class star-rated experience awaits you in France.Best table choice – Preferred table reservation at MOMENTS Restaurant and VIVA’s Brasserie or VIVA's TrattoriaAperitif with the Captain and Hotel Manager – Get to know your Captain and Hotel Manager personally over champagne and canapésOur Suites BenefitsPriority boarding – You can move into your cabin 1 hour before the actual check-in timeWelcome aperitif – In your cabin with wine and canapésFrom the airport to the ship – Join us on an exclusive excursion or exchange it for a personalized transfer. We'll take you from the airport in Venice or Paris directly to VIVA UNIQUE or VIVA BEYOND. (From 2027) 21 September, 2025 -
Celebrity Cruises Introduces the Most Innovative Ships on the RiverCelebrity Cruises Introduces the Most Innovative Ships on the River
The future of river cruising has arrived. Celebrity Cruises is bringing transformative ships with open decks, spacious staterooms, unmatched dining and its signature elevated hospitality to the Rhine and Danube rivers – offering guests the chance to river vacation The Celebrity Way. Priority Booking Access is now open for 2027 sailings on the groundbreaking Celebrity Compass and Celebrity Seeker.Starting today, guests can place a fully refundable $500 deposit to claim a stateroom on one of these two new ships, which combine the iconic design of Celebrity’s Edge Series ocean ships with European charm, and feature a patent-pending, industry-leading design that offers more space to vacation, all while ensuring a smoother, more relaxing sailing experience.“Celebrity River Cruises ships will be the most innovative on the river, with a patent-pending industry-leading design that offers more space to vacation while bringing guests even closer to destinations,” said Laura Hodges Bethge, president of Celebrity Cruises. “With about half of our guests having experienced or intending to take a river cruise, we know guests are going to love sailing Europe’s Rhine and Danube rivers The Celebrity Way on our fleet of elevated, cutting-edge ships.”Revolutionary open decks expand guests’ horizons.Celebrity River Cruises features the intuitive design the brand is known for on ocean, connecting guests to the world around them like never before. Revolutionary open decks offer the most usable outdoor space of any river ship and remain accessible throughout the entire journey, immersing vacationers in uninterrupted, 360-degree views.Celebrity Compass and Celebrity Seeker offer guests the chance to dine floating above the river on the Magic Edge – the first-ever cantilevered dining pods – while enjoying regional, destination-driven culinary offerings. Transformative shade structures, furniture and a top-deck bar and grille, maximize guests’ time on deck while offering zones for every mood, whether it be socializing or disconnecting, in a space designed for year-round comfort. Plus, an infinity-edge plunge pool invites guests to cool off while taking in the sights. These flexible public spaces ensure guests enjoy more of their time outside at destinations, and on the journey in between.Uniquely elegant staterooms offer more room to vacation.Innovative stateroom design delivers intuitive storage, enhanced configuration, king sized beds in every stateroom and spacious balconies to make guests feel at home on the river. Five boutique stateroom categories, each bathed in natural light and deeply connected to surroundings, are designed not just for staying but for living with residential interior design, king-sized beds, and the most in-room amenities on the river. All guests can enjoy complimentary stocked mini bars and destination-inspired amenities, which elevate a serene stay wrapped in the comfort of luxury linens, bedding, bathrobes and slippers. Suite guests also enjoy a dedicated, on-demand butler through ‘Butler Chat,’ complimentary exclusive dining, room service and happy hour experiences, complimentary laundry once each sailing, and priority booking for shore excursions.Every detail is designed to bring guests closer to destinations, as Celebrity’s revolutionary Infinite Veranda concept, made famous on Edge Series ocean ships, connect guests to the breathtaking landscapes around them at the touch of a button. The first-ever Skylight Infinite Balcony Suites feature a separate living area and a ceiling window for unbeatable natural light. Vista Balcony Suites and Balcony staterooms offer private escapes with an enhanced design for more usable outdoor space to enjoy a coffee or unwind after a day on shore. Guests can discover new views without ever leaving their room from an Infinite Balcony stateroom that brings the outside in, while River View staterooms offer generous natural light for the perfect space to relax.Introducing more flavors to savor on the river.Designed for every mood and any taste at any moment, guests will enjoy flavorful dining at eight restaurants and bars – including Celebrity-favorite venues Martini Bar, Sunset Bar and Café Al Bacio - offering the most choice and variety on the river, all served with the unmatched hospitality Celebrity Cruises is known for.Destination-driven menus that evolve throughout each itinerary immerse guests in local delicacies – from locally baked morning pastries to regionally inspired dinners. Guests can savor the day on their own time with complimentary breakfast room service and flexible, all day dining access that offers the only 24/7 meal options on the river.World-class destinations experienced like never before.33 seven-night sailings on the Rhine and Danube rooted in place, culture and connection will take guests through the heart of Europe’s culture, history and unforgettable cities, and invite guests to taste regional wines, walk cobbled village streets, and enjoy the new perspective each day offers. Guests will enjoy a tale of many cities as multiple ports per day – combined with overnight experiences – invite them to explore in a whole new way.From private wine tastings in Austria to thermal baths in Budapest, or cycling the riverbanks of the Danube, every experience is designed to bring out what is rare, real, and remarkable. Guests will see Budapest lit by night, sail the Wachau Valley, and discover hidden gems that feel like their own.Plus, elevated pre- and post-cruise stays – available to book in early 2026 – extend guests' time in iconic cities like Prague and Budapest, all seamlessly arranged and elevated The Celebrity Way.Industry-leading ship design offers an uninterrupted experience.With an unrivaled exterior profile, Celebrity River Cruises will turn heads while maintaining respect for the scenery and history of destinations. Celebrity River Cruises will set sail with an innovative hull, delivering a lightweight versatile design that improves river navigation, delivering the most seamless vacation experience in the industry.Pushing the boundaries of leisure travel, Celebrity’s fleet of river ships advances Royal Caribbean Group’s decades-long commitment to sustaining the planet. The ships are equipped with the best-in-class hybrid propulsion system, as well as waste management systems, alongside advanced technology to reduce noise and vibration.Welcome to river cruising – The Celebrity Way.Celebrity Cruises Captain’s Club members’ loyalty tiers extend to river vacations, giving guests access to new and different rewards, recognition, and elevated experiences from ship to shore. Members can earn 8 to 18 points per night on river vacations, with more details on tier benefits to be shared in 2026. 20 September, 2025 -
TUI River Cruises reveals new venues onboard TUI AriaTUI River Cruises reveals new venues onboard TUI Aria
TUI River Cruises has unveiled its new venues onboard its highest capacity ship across the fleet, TUI Aria, which is due to set sail on its maiden voyage in March 2026 on the River Rhine.The TUI Aria adults only cruise ship will sail along the Rhine, Main, Moselle, Dutch and Belgian waterways from summer 2026 and will be equipped with 96 cabins to accommodate 190 guests per sailing. It offers a range of itineraries from six-to nine-nights and enhanced accessibility from UK regional airports, including two new direct flights from Bristol Airport to Amsterdam and from Newcastle Airport to Frankfurt, offering more choice and flexibility to customers.The new venues onboard TUI Aria are:Reflections is the new multi-use venue onboard, featuring the fleet’s first onboard pool with panoramic views. The space includes showers, a sauna, and a retractable roof for year-round use. During the day, Reflections operates as a poolside area with sun loungers offering light breakfast and lunch options such as yoghurt pots, granola, pastries, and smoothies.In the evening, the pool floor rises to create a dining space for up to 36 guests. Reflections then serves as a secondary à la carte restaurant with Italian-inspired dishes such as arancini, caprese salads, charcuterie and pasta dishes. The venue also hosts live music and film screenings.The Top Deck will provide relaxation and activity zones for all customers allowing them to unwind whilst sipping on a drink and taking in the scenic sights of the European rivers. It will host the fleet’s first putting green whilst providing customers with a range of activities such as sun-loungers, a shuffleboard and various deck games. The crew onboard will also host complimentary yoga sessions, Top Deck BBQ’s and an ice cream party each sailing.**The main restaurant, Verdastro, which is a firm favourite across the European fleet, will also feature on TUI Aria. It will sit 190 for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The waiter-service restaurant will be open to all customers and will offer a buffet mix and live cooking prepared by the ship’s chef onboard. It will have a daily changing menu spotlighting on the local flavours, so customers can get a taste for the region they’re sailing through whilst onboard. The gala dinner for each sailing will take place in Verdastro where customers will be served a six course meal which takes them on a European culinary journey with every course.The Observatory will be the heartbeat of the ship as it will host nightly entertainment from TUI River Cruises’ resident entertainment team who will provide a programme of day to night entertainment such as vocal productions, music, quizzes, film showings and silent disco. The versatile space will host the river cruise’s Afternoon Tea which includes tasty sandwiches, cakes, scones and a selection of teas.Katy Berzins, Head of River Cruises, TUI River Cruises says: “TUI Aria marks a bold new chapter for TUI River Cruises, reflecting our commitment to innovation and guest experience. As our highest capacity ship to date, it’s been designed to offer more flexibility for our customers– whether they’re seasoned river cruisers or new to river cruise. Reflections, our new multi-use innovative venue, transforms from a poolside area by day to a stylish dining venue by night, offering more choice for our customers. Alongside new itineraries, additional regional flight options, and thoughtfully designed onboard experiences, TUI Aria opens up even more ways for customers to explore Europe’s rivers in style."Like the rest of the European fleet, TUI Aria will be Full Board Plus*, as standard with the option for guests to upgrade to all-inclusive. The itineraries include the Moselle & North Rhine itinerary sailing from Frankfurt, and the North Rhine & Moselle Explorer and Dutch Delta Discovery itineraries from Amsterdam sailing with TUI Aria. 20 September, 2025 -
AmaWaterways Expands European Orderbook with Eight New ShipsAmaWaterways Expands European Orderbook with Eight New Ships
AmaWaterways, the largest cruise line dedicated exclusively to river cruising, today announced plans to expand its European orderbook with eight new ships scheduled for delivery by 2030. With these additions, the company’s global fleet will grow to more than 40 vessels – doubling its vessel count since 2020. This expansion reflects the surging demand for AmaWaterways’ immersive river cruise experiences.“Our expanding fleet is a direct response to the strong demand from guests eager to discover river cruising and Europe’s beautiful rivers,” said Catherine Powell, CEO of AmaWaterways. "These new ships represent exciting opportunities for our valued travel partners and us to grow together. With each new ship, we will continue to sail our guests to the heart of every destination while delivering the high-touch service, elegant design, and immersive experiences that define AmaWaterways."AmaWaterways is known for its carefully curated itineraries and immersive shore excursions, ranging from guided cultural explorations to exclusive culinary and active experiences. Each day on an AmaWaterways cruise offers up to seven included excursions tailored to a wide range of interests and activity levels - from history-rich walking tours and scenic bike rides to wine tastings in renowned vineyards and unique local experiences like truffle hunting in the south of France.Onboard, guests enjoy award-winning cuisine and AmaWaterways’ signature Wellness Hosts lead daily exercise and relaxation classes, providing guests with holistic experiences both on and off the ship. Leisure options onboard feature sun deck pools, walking tracks, fitness rooms, spas, and local cultural performances each evening. Guests are accompanied throughout their journey by a dedicated Cruise Manager and a highly attentive crew, with select suites offering butler service for the ultimate in personalised care.AmaWaterways has been recognised for having the highest number of returning guests in river cruising, a testament to the exceptional experiences that keep travellers coming back year after year.With its planned fleet expansion, AmaWaterways continues to set the standard for immersive river cruising in Europe. The company will continue to work closely with its community of travel partners while delivering the high-touch, high-value service that guests have come to expect and love. Further details on the new ships will be announced in the months ahead. 18 September, 2025 -
Tauck Adds Two New Riverboats to Award-Winning Fleet in 2027Tauck Adds Two New Riverboats to Award-Winning Fleet in 2027
Driven by unprecedented guest demand, Tauck today announced plans to add two new riverboats to its award-winning fleet in 2027. Combined with two ships launching in 2026, this four-vessel expansion over two years represents the highest volume increase in Tauck's river cruising history, delivering overall capacity growth of 30% since 2025. The addition of the new 2027 ships will further scale the company's presence in its most sought-after destinations, with capacity growing 50% in France, and the Douro nearly doubling capacity versus 2025.To address this strong demand, Tauck is announcing its 2027 river cruise season earlier than ever before, allowing guests to secure preferred departures with risk-free deposits while final details are being completed. "The enthusiasm for our river cruising experiences has been extraordinary," said Jennifer Tombaugh, Tauck CEO. "Guests appreciate the intimate atmosphere fostered by our 'small is big' philosophy, particularly in high-demand destinations like the Douro and France, where space is naturally limited. These new riverboats will enable us to host more guests in these beloved regions, while continuing to deliver the personalized, exceptional experience that is the hallmark of Tauck River Cruising."NEW GENERATION OF SHIPS DESIGNED WITH GUEST-DRIVEN INNOVATIONTauck's river cruise ships are dedicated to providing more private guest space, limiting guests onboard from 84 or 98 on smaller riverboats to no more than 130 aboard larger vessels. Built to take advantage of the temperate climates and scenic beauty of Europe's wine regions and bucolic rivers, both new ships feature resort-style Sun Decks with swimming pools and full-service bars, striking sky-lit atriums, and panoramic lounges that maximize the connection between guests and the passing landscapes.More than 75% of ship cabins are 225 square feet or larger across both new riverboats, with accommodations featuring a generous offering of 300-square-foot Category 5 Tauck Suites on the Diamond (upper) Deck. These suites showcase roomy, airy and well-lit accommodations boasting double French balconies, walk-in closets, comfortable seating areas and king-size beds positioned to take in views of the passing countryside.ENHANCED WELLNESS AND DESTINATION-SPECIFIC FEATURESThe 125-meter Seine riverboat will share the same elegant design philosophy as the ms Serene that is scheduled to launch in 2026. The ship's Sun Deck with swimming pool and bar creates an ideal space for enjoying France's temperate climate, while Arthur's casual dining venue at the bow offers panoramic views of the Seine's meandering waterway. The vessel will offer a new feature, The Retreat, an expanded and innovative wellness area on the upper Diamond Deck to provide abundant natural light and river views through full floor-to-ceiling windows, including a fitness center, massage treatment room, and comfortable lounging area with coffee, juice, and snack bar.The 80-meter Douro riverboat will join sister ship ms Andorinha on Portugal's Douro River, incorporating thoughtful design elements that have made ms Andorinha a guest favorite, including hydraulic systems that allow the ship to navigate the Douro's distinctive lock system with ease. Arthur's casual dining venue positioned at the stern provides guests with unobstructed 360-degree views of the river's dramatic landscapes and terraced vineyards."Every detail on these new ships has been designed to elevate the guest experience while cruising along two of Europe's most storied rivers," said Tombaugh. "With our incredible team on the river and ashore, guests feel the Tauck difference in every thoughtful detail and seamless moment, creating travel experiences that become the stories that stay with them long after they've returned home."Tauck's comprehensive, all-inclusive river cruise experience ensures guests enjoy a worry-free journey, with all shore excursions, gratuities, onboard beverages (including premium wines, beers, and spirits), airport transfers, luggage handling, taxes, fees and more covered in the upfront price.Guests are now able to reserve space on the 2027 itinerary and departure date of their choosing. All guests who reserve 2027 cruises now will have the opportunity to cancel and receive a full refund of their deposits, when pricing and final itinerary details are announced later this fall. 18 September, 2025 -
The First-Ever Dedicated Solo Ship Has Arrived with Riviera TravelThe First-Ever Dedicated Solo Ship Has Arrived with Riviera Travel
Riviera Travel, the UK’s leading river cruise operator, is setting sail into a bold new era with the launch of its 2027 season, headlined by an industry first: MS George Eliot, the world’s first river cruise ship operating exclusively for solo travellers. Joining her is Riviera Alba, a brand-new long-haul vessel bringing Riviera Travel’s award-winning river cruises to Asia for the first time, navigating the legendary Mekong River. Together, these groundbreaking launches mark a transformative moment for river cruising, showcasing Riviera’s commitment to innovation, choice, and unforgettable travel experiences.Phil Hullah, CEO of Riviera Travel, says: “This is a landmark moment not only for Riviera but for the river cruise industry as a whole. The launch of MS George Eliot, the first river cruise ship to operate exclusively for solo guests, allows us to offer independent travellers a choice and focus that no other operator provides. Alongside this, the debut of Riviera Alba on the Mekong marks our first step beyond Europe, expanding our horizons and giving our guests the opportunity to experience Asia’s most iconic waterways with the same trusted Riviera service. These milestones mark a bold new chapter for river cruising.”The highlights:MS George Eliot - Solo Travel RedefinedThe world’s first river cruise ship operating exclusively for solo guests, with the first sailing departing June 2027. A full season of solo-exclusive departures, dramatically increasing capacity for independent travellers and putting them centre stage. Two brand-new 15-day itineraries - the longest solo river cruises ever offered. Early booking bonus: free upgrade from middle to upper deck on 2027 European river cruises (book by 31 October 2025).Riviera Alba - A New Dawn on the MekongRiviera Travel’s first-ever ship outside Europe, marking the beginning of a new era for the brand. Her name, Alba, meaning “dawn” in Latin, symbolises a new era for Riviera, marking its first ship outside Europe and opening Asia’s iconic waterways to the company’s award-winning service. A boutique-style vessel carrying just 50 guests in 25 beautifully appointed suites, with panoramic windows, open decks, and a high crew-to-guest ratio. Delivers personalised service and immersive experiences along one of Asia’s most iconic waterways.Looking aheadWith MS George Eliot, the world’s first ship dedicated solely to solo travellers, and Riviera Alba, opening up Asia for the very first time, Riviera Travel’s 2027 season offers guests more choice than ever before. From intimate solo journeys through Europe to epic long-haul adventures in Asia, guests can expect unrivalled comfort, exceptional service, and unforgettable experiences. 17 September, 2025 -
MSC Cruises welcomes England Rugby Legends onboard MSC VirtuosaMSC Cruises welcomes England Rugby Legends onboard MSC Virtuosa
MSC Cruises brought world-class rugby action to sea this September, as England’s 2003 Rugby World Cup heroes Martin Johnson (World-Cup winning captain), Ben Cohen, and Mark Regan joined guests onboard MSC Virtuosa for an unforgettable sporting-themed cruise.Sailing roundtrip from Southampton to the stunning Norwegian Fjords, the trip featured a full line-up of unique events hosted by the rugby legends. Guests not only enjoyed exclusive opportunities to meet, learn from and even compete alongside some of England’s most celebrated players, but also made the most of everything MSC Virtuosa has to offer, from restaurants, entertainment and shopping to swimming pools and shore excursions.Those onboard enjoyed the following activities:Live Q&A with the Rugby Legends: Guests heard first-hand stories from the 2003 Rugby World Cup and took part in an interactive Q&A, with the chance to win a Champions ’03 shirt signed by the full squad.Sportsman’s Lunch: A 3-course dining experience with Johnson, Cohen, and Regan gave fans the chance to capture photos and hear personal insights from their glittering careers.Dance Class with Ben Cohen & Kristina Rihanoff: Guests swapped the rugby pitch for the dancefloor as Ben teamed up with professional dancer and choreographer from a popular British TV show, Kristina, for an energetic workshop.Rugby Coaching for Kids: Captain Martin Johnson and Ben Cohen led a fun-filled coaching session at the ship’s Sportsplex, inspiring the next generation of players.Guest Talent Show “Dancing Shoes”: Cohen and Rihanoff took to the judging panel to crown the cruise’s most entertaining performers.MSC Formula Racer Simulator Challenge: Guests put their driving skills to the test, racing against the World Cup winners in the ship’s state-of-the-art racing simulator.Premium Prize Draw: Guests could purchase £10 tickets for the chance to win a limited-edition 2003 England rugby shirt signed by the full squad. Ticket holders for the paid events (Q&A and Sportsman’s Lunch) were automatically entered into the draw.Antonio Paradiso, VP of International Sales at MSC Cruises, said: “We recently welcomed three of England’s most iconic rugby legends onboard MSC Virtuosa, giving our guests the chance to meet their heroes and enjoy some fun, once-in-a-lifetime experiences with them. It’s a great example of how MSC Cruises brings people together to create unforgettable holidays in some of the world’s best destinations. And with one final rugby sailing coming up this September, we’d encourage fans not to miss out on the chance to be part of it.”For guests who didn’t get the chance to attend previous rugby sailings on MSC Virtuosa, there is one final opportunity to book the last sailing on 27 September 2025. This voyage will give holidaymakers a final chance to enjoy the ship’s award-winning entertainment, world-class dining and family-friendly amenities before she repositions.More information about the next rugby sailing can be found here. The 2003 England Rugby legends Neil Back, Kyran Bracken, and Andy Gomarsall will be joining this cruise.Guests are able to pre-book the Q&A and Sportsman’s Lunch through their personal area ahead of the cruise. 12 September, 2025 -
Globally acclaimed theatre show Come from Away set for first production at sea on Cunard’s Queen ElizabethGlobally acclaimed theatre show Come from Away set for first production at sea on Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth
Cunard will bring Come from Away — the Tony Award and Oliver Award-winning show — to sea for the first time ever in an exclusive production in collaboration with Music Theatre International.The highly anticipated revival during Queen Elizabeth’s maiden Caribbean voyage, on 16 October 2025, comes as the heartwarming production celebrates 10 years since its debut.The globally acclaimed show, written by Irene Sankoff and David Hein*, depicts the remarkable true story of the 6,579 air passengers grounded in a small Canadian town in the wake of 9/11, and the Newfoundland community that invited these ‘come from aways’ into their lives. A reflection on friendship, hope and gratitude, it has captivated sold-out crowds – including on Broadway and in London’s West End.After a decade of moving audiences worldwide, Cunard is now bringing this uplifting display of resilience and understanding to the high seas. At a time when its message rings truer than ever, this special production promises to be an unforgettable experience.Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, said: “We are very excited to bring Come from Away to Queen Elizabeth for her maiden Caribbean season. It’s a show that resonates deeply with audiences, celebrating compassion and connection – values that we share at Cunard. We are incredibly passionate about the power of timeless storytelling, and our long-standing affiliation with London’s West End and Broadway in New York ensures that unparalleled entertainment is at the heart of the Cunard experience. Our 2026 Entertainment Residencies will build on this commitment, offering our guests unforgettable access to the very best live performances at sea.”John Brant, Producer of Come from Away, said: "Even after ten years, it's still incredible to see the impact this show has on people. Now more than ever, we believe it’s important to gather friends and family to see it together, with the hope that it inspires them to find common ground in their lives. This partnership with Cunard is a meaningful opportunity to bring our story to new corners of the world, and we can't wait for passengers to experience it for themselves.”Come From Away will be performed in Queen Elizabeth’s majestic Royal Court Theatre twice during each voyage, with matinee and evening performances available. This exclusive production has been specially crafted for the stage at sea, featuring one hour and 40 minutes of powerful storytelling, music and an ensemble of 12 talented stage performers. New and returning Come from Away fans will be wowed by a fresh perspective that remains true to the magic of the original production. 08 September, 2025 -
Star Princess Shines Through Successful Sea TrialsStar Princess Shines Through Successful Sea Trials
Princess Cruises’ highly anticipated second Sphere-Class ship, the stunning Star Princess, which is currently being built by Fincantieri, has reached a major milestone with the successful completion of its sea trials. The ship is on track to welcome its first guests on October 4, 2025, sailing the scenic Mediterranean from Barcelona.During these final sea trials from August 9–12, Star Princess departed the Fincantieri Shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy, for the Adriatic Sea, where the vessel completed a comprehensive series of tests, including steering, navigation systems, and propulsion. As the second ship in the Princess fleet powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), Star Princess represents a significant step forward in reducing emissions. To optimise both power efficiency and manoeuvrability, the vessel is fitted with two Azipod propulsion units, providing 360 degree thrust for both forward and reverse movement, along with four large controllable pitch bow thrusters, enabling precise lateral manoeuvring.Star Princess Captain Gennaro Arma, a 27-year veteran with Princess Cruises and leader of the Sphere-Class newbuild site team, oversaw the sea trials. He now heads a team of 1,600 dedicated crew members as the ship enters its final phase of outfitting.“We confidently led Star Princess through sea trials,” said Captain Arma. “As the proud leader of our newest vessel, I’m extremely impressed with the ship’s navigation capabilities and manoeuvrability. With the final countdown underway, my incredible teammates and I can’t wait to welcome guests aboard for unforgettable adventures this fall.”Currently under final construction at Fincantieri, the 177,800-ton, 4,300-guest Star Princess - sister to the award-winning Sun Princess - will feature 30 distinct dining and bar venues, elevated entertainment and activity offerings, and luxurious accommodations, including Sanctuary Collection suites, mini-suites and balcony rooms, each offering a private getaway with exclusive amenities, spaces and rooms.With over 1,500 balcony staterooms, guests will enjoy panoramic views from the privacy of their own rooms. Standout venues include The Dome, a next-generation relaxation and entertainment space; The Arena, Princess’ most technologically advanced theatre yet; The Piazza, the architectural centrepiece of the ship with its dramatic curves, floor-to-ceiling windows, and sweeping ocean vistas; and Spellbound by Magic Castle®, the captivating speakeasy experience born from a collaboration with the famed Hollywood icon, The Magic Castle™.Star Princess will debut with a rich inaugural season featuring sailings to the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Panama Canal, and Alaska. 13 August, 2025 -
August 2025 ReviewAugust 2025 Review
Schools were out and ships were in during August as new debutantes made waves in Florida and the UK, while the river cruise world notched up a handful of major milestones. Exciting new sailings promise to push back the boundaries of the most distant destinations and there are novel new ways to explore ashore too.It’s a hello to new ships . . .The world’s newest and joint-largest ship, Royal Caribbean International’s Star of the Seas, joined older sister Icon of the Seas as it was officially named at Port Canaveral, while Virgin Voyages’ latest addition, Brilliant Lady, sailed into Portsmouth. Princess Cruises’ second Sphere-class ship, Star Princess, completed sea trials ahead of its October launch and announced enhancements to its Spellbound by Magic Castle experience first seen on Sun Princess. Meanwhile, Scenic’s fleet expansion continues apace with the steel-cutting of Emerald Raiya at the Vietnam shipyard where the 128-passenger ship is being built.. . . and a farewell to Seven Seas Navigator whose final season was revealed by owner Regent Seven Seas Cruises with commemorative voyages from August to October next year, culminating in its final voyage on October 2, 2026.Riveting riversAPT Travel Group launched Travelmarvel as a stand-alone brand with a fresh identity and refined focus aimed at the premium market and built around “freedom and flexibility”, with its own website. Celebrity Cruises announced the opening of priority booking access on September 3, enabling clients to secure their spot on its new river cruises with a refundable deposit. Uniworld and Seabourn unveiled a new partnership combining the boutique river line’s Venice sailings with the luxury ocean brand’s Adriatic voyages under the banner of two “Venice and the Mediterranean Sea” departures in 2026. Avalon Waterways is promoting its Cozy Cruise Collection of autumnal and winter breaks, while Amadeus River Cruises has unveiled its 2026 programme with a focus on flexible fly-cruises.New products make their markWindstar Cruises has come out with “Quick Getaways”, nine sailings of three to five nights in Europe from next spring, while Azamara Cruises unveiled a deeper way to get beneath the skin of destinations with its “Discover What the Locals Know” programme from winter 2026/27. Explora Journeys announced new Sky & Sea fares offering flight-inclusive packages, while Silversea unveiled outdoor adventures including hiking, bird-watching and kayaking from its hotel at Puerto Williams in Chile’s Tierra del Fuego, The Cormorant at 55 South, ahead of its January opening.Far-flung adventures on the horizonPrincess Cruises announced its largest-ever Japan programme for 2027 with Diamond Princess and Sapphire Princess offering 78 departures, while Swan Hellenic says it is offering the world’s first Asia-Pacific cultural expedition cruises with five voyages next spring and two in September. MSC Cruises is to offer its first Alaska fly-cruises for summer 2026, while Crystal is promising the best experiences on sea and shore with new “By Abercrombie & Kent” experiences incorporating land adventures with its parent company. Seabourn is pushing the boat out with its first Pole to Pole voyage for 2027, a 94-day grand expedition aboard Seabourn Venture starting in Reykjavik on August 17 and ending in Ushuaia. 01 August, 2025