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July 2025 ReviewJuly 2025 Review
It’s not only new river and ocean ships making the news, but other debutants due to launch later this year and beyond, plus the return of a familiar name. A roll-call of captivating new shore experiences, along with intriguing on-board activities is also sparking added interest.New ships and new featuresOceania Cruisesunveiled eighth shipOceania Alluraand confirmed an order for two new Sonata Class vessels, whileAmerican Cruise LineschristenedAmerican Patriot, the first of its new Patriot Class, in Rhode Island.Celebrity Cruisesdetailed new spaces on latest Edge-class shipCelebrity Xcel, ahead of its November launch, that include an oasis-style VIP pool area and an “all-day, all-night” games room, whileWindstar Cruises’revealed thatStar Explorerwill debut with winter Mediterranean sailings following its December 2026 launch.Explora Journeysmarked three major milestones in Genoa with the float-out ofExplora III, coin ceremony ofExplora IVand steel-cutting ofExplora Vin Genoa.and a familiar face . . .Here’s a welcome return withSwan Hellenic’sfounding shipSH Minervaback in the fleet, sailing from November to Antarctica for the winter season.Bookings boostRegent Seven Seas Cruisesreported record-breaking launch day business forSeven Seas Prestige, arriving in December 2026, whileRoyal Caribbean Internationalopened bookings for itsRoyal Beach Club Paradise Islandin the Bahamas, which opens this December.Rivers are rollin’Saga Cruiseswelcomed third river shipSpirit of the Mosellewhich was named in Amsterdam and starts its maiden season on the Main, andTUI River Cruisesrevealed new venues onTUI Bahareya, which launches on the Nile in November. Wining and dining is on the cards forVIVA Cruisesthis November with its first gourmet voyage along the Danube, whileCroisiEuropeguests can savour Provencal vinos on a wine-themed voyage along the Rhone.Riverside Luxury Cruisesis bringing a cultural flavour to sailings with art-themed excursions that include a private viewing of Gustav Klimt’s The Kiss in Vienna.Pepping up ship lifeCalling all intrepid explorers.HX Expeditionsis spicing up Antarctica voyages with more kayaking and camping adventures this winter.Azamara Cruisesis building on its reputation for cultural immersion with new Live Like a Local shore excursions that go one step further with visits to festivals and artisan workshops, culinary experiences and private access tours, whileCunardhas unveiled a treasure trove of 30-plus exclusive shore experiences forQueen Elizabeth’sdebut season of Caribbean sailings from Miami this winter. Murder, mystery and Martinis take centre stage onVirgin Voyages’first True Crime Voyage to the Caribbean this October, whileHolland America Lineis spilling backdoor secrets by reintroducing behind-the-scenes ship tours that include the bridge, galley and engine control room.New voyages for 27/28Emerald’s2027/28 Yacht Collection offers 25 new voyages, 19 new port calls and marks the inaugural season ofEmerald Raiyawhich debuts in April 2027.Regent’s2027/28 Voyage Collection features 234 departures, including 19 maiden port calls, a 133-night world cruise and five Grand Voyages, whileSeaDream Yacht Club’s2028 Caribbean season ushers in more calls at the British and US Virgin Islands, increased overnight stays at St Barts, full moon parties and maiden calls at Port St Charles in Barbados and St Pierre, Martinique. 01 July, 2025 -
New Zealanders sailing for distant shoresNew Zealanders sailing for distant shores
June 18, 2025 – New Zealand cruise fans are increasingly opting for fly-cruise holidays in other parts of the world, according to figures released today by Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). In its annual Source Market Report for New Zealand, CLIA has outlined data showing a decline in local cruising among New Zealanders in 2024, but a significant increase in cruising in long-haul destinations. CLIA’s figures show a total of 80,200 New Zealanders took an ocean cruise during 2024. This is a 7.1% decrease from 2023, when 86,300 sailed, and well below the 106,300 people who sailed in 2019 – confirming that the local market has yet to fully rebound. However, the number of New Zealanders who cruised in long-haul destinations increased by 39.2% since 2023 to 27,700 in 2024. This represents 34.5% of all New Zealand cruisers, up from 23.1% in 2023. CLIA Managing Director in Australasia Joel Katz said the swing towards long-haul destinations reflected reduced levels of cruise ship deployment in New Zealand. “While global cruise figures are at record levels, New Zealand has been impacted by reduced local deployment due to regulatory challenges and rising costs faced by cruise lines locally,” Mr Katz said. “The New Zealand cruise market has also been affected by other local economic factors – just like other areas of tourism – but the data suggests Kiwi cruise fans will opt to sail elsewhere if their choices at home are reduced.” CLIA’s 2024 Source Market Report shows the average age of a New Zealand cruise passenger in 2024 was 50.8 years, slightly up on the 49.3 of the previous year but down on the 52.5 of 2019. This is in line with the broader global trend as cruise lines attract younger generations. More than one quarter (29.0%) of New Zealand cruise passengers were aged under 40 in 2024. Key findings from CLIA’s 2024 Source Market Report for New Zealand include: A total of 80,200 New Zealanders took an ocean cruise during 2024, a 7.1% decrease from 2023 when 86,300 sailed. The result is also below the 106,300 people who sailed in 2019. Around two-thirds of Kiwi cruisers (65.5% or 52,500 people) sailed within Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific – traditionally the most popular region for this market. However, this was down from 2023 when more than three-quarters (77.0% or 66,500 people) sailed locally. The number of New Zealanders who cruised in long-haul destinations increased by 39.2% to 27,700 in 2024. This represents 34.5% of all New Zealand cruisers, up from 23.1% in 2023. The average duration of an ocean cruise taken by New Zealanders was 9.7 days in 2024, up slightly from 9.2 days in 2023. This reflects the increase in cruising in long-haul destinations where passengers traditionally sail longer. The average age of a New Zealand cruise passenger in 2024 was 50.8 years, slightly up on the 49.3 of the previous year but down on the 52.4 of 2019. This is in line with the broader global trend as cruise lines attract younger generations. The most popular destination for New Zealand cruisers was the Pacific, where 28.6% of Kiwis sailed, followed by New Zealand (18.8%), Australia (18.1%), the Mediterranean (11.9%), Asia (5.0%), Alaska (4.1%), and the Caribbean (3.6%). Worldwide, a record 34.6 million people took an ocean cruise during 2024, a 9.3% increase on the previous record of 31.7 million in 2023. While demand for cruising continues to grow worldwide, Mr Katz said more work was needed to attract ships to New Zealand. "New Zealand is an incredibly popular cruise destination but it is also a challenging environment for cruise lines to operate in,” Mr Katz said. “We need government, destinations and industry stakeholders to work together to address the regulatory difficulties and high fees that cruise lines experience in the region, which ultimately deter ships from operating in New Zealand.” Previous figures released last year by CLIA and the New Zealand Cruise Association (ACA) showed a huge economic impact from cruise tourism during the 2023-24 financial year, providing NZ$1.37 billion for the national economy. The CLIA-NZCA Economic Impact Assessment found more than 9,700 New Zealand jobs were supported by cruise tourism in locations around the country. Download the New Zealand source market infographic. 18 June, 2025 -
VIVA Cruises appoints Michelle Daniels as new country manager for UK Ireland
VIVA Cruises appoints Michelle Daniels as new country manager for UK Ireland
European river cruise specialist, VIVA Cruises, has appointed Michelle Daniels as the new country manager for the UK & Ireland, Australia and New Zealand, effective from today, 1st April 2025. In her new role, Michelle will be responsible for driving the growth and development of VIVA Cruises in these key markets, overseeing sales, marketing and customer engagement strategies. Michelle will work closely with travel agents, tour operators and other industry partners to strengthen VIVA Cruises’ position as a truly premium international brand. Michelle is a seasoned travel professional with more than 20 years’ experience in the cruise industry. Her impressive track record includes roles such as sales director for UK & Ireland; commercial director for UK & Europe; and global head of sales – always achieving very positive results. Andrea Kruse, CEO of VIVA Cruises, expressed her excitement about Michelle’s appointment: “We are thrilled to welcome Michelle to the VIVA Cruises family. Her appointment underscores our commitment to the UK market and our international strategy. Michelle’s expertise and passion for the travel industry will be invaluable as we continue to grow and innovate as a premium international brand. We are confident that her leadership will help us achieve our ambitious goals and further enhance our reputation as Europe’s leading river cruise specialist.” Michelle Daniels said: “I am delighted to join the VIVA Cruises team and take on the role of country manager. I am truly excited to contribute to the river cruise specialist’s continued international success and growth. I look forward to working with our partners and customers to deliver unforgettable river cruise experiences and to further expand our presence in these key markets, including the UK.” VIVA Cruises was founded in 2018 as the in-house tour operator of Swiss shipping company, Scylla AG. Since then, it has grown rapidly and now boasts a nine-ship fleet sailing on major European rivers, including VIVA ONE, VIVA TWO and the recently launched, VIVA ENJOY, which is VIVA TWO’s sister ship. VIVA Cruises is also launching new Douro itineraries on board new built ship, PORTO MIRANTE, from April 2025; and its very first boutique river ship, VIVA BEYOND, in May 2026 – with half of its 58 cabins being suites. VIVA BEYOND is part of VIVA Cruises’ brand-new VIVA Boutique product, aimed at offering an elevated premium experience to guests. 13 June, 2025 -
VIVA Cruises bids to grow trade sales with Widgety collaboration
VIVA Cruises bids to grow trade sales with Widgety collaboration
European river cruise specialist VIVA Cruises is bidding to increase trade sales in collaboration with travel technology firm Widgety. The new partnership is designed to make it easier and more accessible for the travel trade to make bookings by providing agents with seamless access to the complete VIVA Cruises programme. This includes pricing, images and brochure content via API feeds to drive their websites and booking platforms. The collaboration supports the line’s ambition to “substantially” increase market share of the German company’s global business from the UK, Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand over the next 18 months. The VIVA Cruises programme is already available on other platforms such as Traveltek, Dreamlake and Cabin Select. Newly-appointed VIVA Cruises UK, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand country manager Michelle Danielssaid: “We are delighted to partner with Widgety to offer our trade partners seamless access to the complete Viva Cruises programme - including pricing, images, and brochure content. “This collaboration further demonstrates our commitment to the travel trade and our dedication to becoming a trusted partner in river cruising.” Widgety director Damian Gevertz added: “We are thrilled to be collaborating with Viva Cruises and their team and we are confident that this unique brand will achieve great success. “The Viva feed has been upgraded and is now available in GBP, USD and EUR across all our products.” 13 June, 2025 -
SeaDream Yacht Club targets UK passenger growth
SeaDream Yacht Club targets UK passenger growth
SeaDream Yacht Club hosted more than 100 agents during SeaDream II’s maiden call in London as the cruise line continues its effort to achieve UK passenger numbers on a par with pre-pandemic levels. Bob Lepisto, the line’s president, said the trade would play a key role in the push to strengthen UK figures. He said: “Our UK passenger numbers are good, but they have not rebounded yet to the level that the US and Canadian numbers have come back post-Covid. We do have a very loyal following here, but we’re always looking to enhance our presence in the UK market.” Each of SeaDream Yacht Club’s two ships has a maximum capacity of 112 guests and a crew of 95. During the weekend showcase of SeaDream II, about 100 agents were among 560 visitors in total, Lepisto said, with many of those stepping on board being high-net-worth individuals. “Having the yacht here and having so many travel agents here in itself is a big step forward,” Lepisto toldTravel Weeklyon Friday (May 23). He added: “We’re searching for those travel agents who can learn about us and confidently sell us and the thing that travel agents who start selling us love is that most of their guests book their next voyage before they get off the ship. “We really respect travel agents and when they deliver us a guest, we never try to change that guest to a direct booking with SeaDream.” UK and Ireland sales director Mark Schmitt has helped ensure “great support” from a number of agencies, Lepisto said, with the line’s focus now on further expanding its trade reach. “We love the UK market and we want to grow that market,” he added. The line does not host fam trips, but it offers agent rates for members of the trade who would like to join a sailing. Lepisto said agents should regard charters as a significant income opportunity, arguing that clients would be attracted by the line’s own research suggesting a five-day Caribbean sailing can be about 35% cheaper than staying in a five-star hotel. “Not many travel agents think, ‘I could recommend a charter on SeaDream’,” he added. 13 June, 2025 -
TWO NEW WORLD-CLASS SHIPS TO BE BUILT IN FRANCE
TWO NEW WORLD-CLASS SHIPS TO BE BUILT IN FRANCE
MSC Cruises today signed two new orders for their globally successful World Class ships. The order with French ship builder Chantiers de l’Atlantique, will see the total number of World Class ships in the MSC Cruises fleet expand to six. The two new ordered vessels – currently referred to as World Class 5 and 6 – will be delivered in 2029 and 2030 respectively and demonstrates the Company’s ongoing commitment to France and European shipbuilding. Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman, MSC Cruises, said, “The confirmation of the orders for the two new World Class ships marks a new milestone in our remarkable journey of shipbuilding in France and the continuation of our long-term industrial plan. This milestone underscores our commitment to building some of the highest performing ships in the world, creating a legacy of excellence and innovation in collaboration with the Chantiers de l’Atlantique – our long-term partners of more than 20 years. The highly successful World Class platform combines the very best in environmental technology with the latest advancements in guest experiences.” Laurent Castaing, General Manager, Chantiers de l’Atlantique added, "We thank MSC Cruises for their continued trust. It is the synergy of our two companies’ expertise that has led to the creation of this high-potential World Class series, meeting the challenges both in terms of passenger experience and environmental performance. World Class V and VI mark a milestone in the history of the cruise industry, with the best energy efficiency.” The new ships will join MSC World Europa and MSC World America along with MSC World Asia and MSC World Atlantic, which are currently under construction and will enter service in 2026 and 2027 respectively. The World Class ships are already the most energy efficient ships in service, significantly outperforming the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) and the new vessels will continue to uphold the high energy efficiency standards set by their sister ships. All World Class ships are ready for a variety of alternative fuels including bio and synthetic LNG. Additionally, they will feature a new configuration of the latest generation dual fuel internal combustion engines, which feature new technology to further reduce methane slip. The new vessels will feature shore power plug-in connectivity to reduce carbon emissions in port, the most advanced wastewater treatment systems designed in line with the IMO, new advances in waste management, and a comprehensive range of onboard energy-efficient equipment to optimise engine use and hotel energy needs to further reduce emissions. As with the other World Class ships, the new vessels will seamlessly blend MSC Cruises’ signature elegant European design with comfort to offer an unparalleled guest experience centred around a districts concept with facilities, and experiences tailored to the needs of different types of traveler. Each new ship MSC Cruises builds offers something new and distinctive and World 5 and 6 will be no different. The two new orders will be subject to access to financing, as per industry practice. 13 June, 2025 -
Uniworld expands European fleet with three new vessels
Uniworld expands European fleet with three new vessels
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises is further expanding its European fleet with three new ships due to enter service in 2027. The new vessels will sail the Rhine, Main, Danube and Douro rivers. They will join the line’s other Super Ships, including SS Emilie debuting in 2026, SS Elisabeth this year and SS Victoria in 2024 – expanding the line’s fleet size by more than 10% since 2020. The new builds will be inspired by prominent figures with strong connections to the regions sailed. The new ships, each carrying an average of 120 passengers, will follow the same design approach, each with its own unique inspiration, look and feel, according to the company. President and chef executive Ellen Bettridge said: “2027 will mark an extraordinary milestone for Uniworld as we complete our transformation into a fully Super Ship fleet with the addition of three incredible new builds. “Our focus has never been on simply adding more ships, but on continually raising the bar on the luxury river cruise experience. These new vessels will embody our unwavering commitment to innovation and craftsmanship, delivering something truly unparalleled for our valued guests – where no detail is too small.” 13 June, 2025 -
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises reveals first look at new ship Emilie
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises reveals first look at new ship Emilie
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises has unveiled a first look atits newest ship Emilie and the itineraries it will sail next year to coincide with its 50th anniversary. The 154-passenger new-build ship will sail eight different itineraries throughout Europe and debut on the Danube river. Emilie’s design will be inspired by Austrian painter Gustav Klimt and is named after his life partner,Emilie Flöge. To coincide with its 50th year of operations, the luxury river cruise line will offer three Mystery Cruises, its third 50-night Rivers of the World Adventure and a new Generations Collection sailing next year. The Mystery Cruises are being brought back due to "popular demand", and will sail to destinations notannounced to passengers before each trip. There will be an eight-day and a 15-day cruise departing Amsterdam on April 26 and an eight-day sailing leaving Bamberg on May 3. Meanwhile, the 2026 Rivers of the World Adventure cruise will begin on April 16and consist of five parts: 10 nights on Emilie in Belgium and the Netherlands, a seven-night Mystery Cruise, a seven-night cruise on the Seine on Joie de Vivre, a 10-night sailing in Burgundy and Provence on Catherine and a 16-night experience in Egypt and Jordan. Uniworld will also bring back its Generation Collection cruises designed for families, with two sailings on July 19 and 26 on the Burgundy & Provence itinerary. Agents will be invited to complete a new Uniworld University Course on "What’s New for 2026" on its online training portal, which once completed will give exclusive perks like special rates, a featured spot on Uniworld’s online directory of preferred agents and a personalised certification badge for their email signature. President and chief executive Ellen Bettridge said: "As we look to celebrate our 50th anniversary next year, we’re incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished. "Uniworld debuted in 1976 as a tour company that soon became the first North American company to offer cruises throughout Europe. "During our five decades in the industry, we’ve strived to continuously innovate and delight our guests with once-in-a-lifetime experiences. "Through it all, the heart of who we are has remained the same, and we’re excited to offer new journeys next year to celebrate our history, our future and our treasured guests." 13 June, 2025 -
Regent Seven Seas unveils first look at Seven Seas Prestige
Regent Seven Seas unveils first look at Seven Seas Prestige
Regent Seven Seas Cruises has unveiled renderings of two public spaces on upcoming ship Seven Seas Prestige.The vessel, due to launch in 2026, will include Starlight Atrium and Galileo’s Bar, both designed by Studio Dado. The two-storey Starlight Atrium will feature twin spiral staircases which will climb from deck four to deck 11. The area will connect guest amenities across decks four and five, such as Galileo’s Bar, the Casino, Prestige Lounge, Meridian Lounge, Coffee Connection, concierge desk and reception.Meanwhile, Galileo’s Bar takes its name from Seven Seas Navigator which will be leaving the fleet on a charter agreement. The venue is “strategically placed” to serve the Prestige Lounge and adjacent casino and will have “a contemporary masterpiece” on its ceiling.Seven Seas Prestige will also bring in new accommodation categories, including a “reimagination” of the Regent Suite, as well as dining experiences which will be announced soon.Regent Seven Seas Cruises chief luxury officer Jason Montague said: “With Seven Seas Prestige being Regent’s first new ship class in 10 years, we are delighted to share these first glimpses of this incredible vessel.“Hosting only 822 guests on a ship that could fit hundreds more means we will offer ‘Heartfelt Hospitality in Unrivalled Space at Sea’ like never before.“I truly cannot wait for this magnificent ship to join ‘The World’s Most Luxurious Fleet’ and the new legacy of all-inclusive, ultra luxury cruising that begins with it.” 13 June, 2025 -
Scenic Eclipse and Emerald Sakara to star in Channel 5 Jane McDonald series
Scenic Eclipse and Emerald Sakara to star in Channel 5 Jane McDonald series
Scenic Eclipse and Emerald Sakara will star in a six-part documentary series on Channel 5 with Jane McDonald as she travells from Antarctic to the Arctic. The programme, calledJane McDonald: From Pole to Pole, is set to air in 2026. Each episode will focus on a different location, including Antarctica, South Georgia, The Falklands, Uruguay, Brazil, Greece, Italy, Norway, Svalbard and the Arctic Circle. McDonald will take part in helicopter rides, whale-watching, Zodiac excursions and other activities on board the luxury vessels. Scenic Group UK managing director of sales and marketing group Nichola Absalom said: “We are absolutely delighted to partner with Channel 5 and JetSetTV to bring audiences an exciting new series that showcases the beauty and versatility of sailing from one pole to another on our luxury yachts. “Working with Jane McDonald has been an incredible experience. This partnership has given us a fantastic opportunity to develop fresh, engaging travel content that inspires viewers with innovative, immersive experiences to unique destinations across a variety of our vessels." McDonald added: “I’m packing my bags and setting sail again on a brand-new adventure with 5, Scenic Group and JetSetTV. “We are going to the ends of the earth to bring some spectacular places into your living rooms. Get the wine open or a cuppa ready, we are going on an adventure.” 13 June, 2025