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NEW STYLE SAME STUNNING VIEWS FROM AVALON WATERWAYSNEW STYLE SAME STUNNING VIEWS FROM AVALON WATERWAYS
The best in river cruising keeps getting better. Avalon Waterways is taking its signature, award-winning Suite Ships to the next level with a fleet-wide refresh designed to enhance the style, comfort and connectivity of river cruising. From fresh new interiors to upgraded outdoor spaces, next-level Wi-Fi, Avalon is reimagining its Suite Ship experience while keeping its breathtaking views exactly the same. Over the next two years, Avalon is updating its already “Better By Design” experience with top-to-bottom enhancements that promise smoother sailing and even more style on every Suite Ship in Europe (with the exception of the Avalon Alegria, Avalon View and Avalon Envision which were already built in the enhanced style leading the fleetwide refresh). Redesigned. Reimagined. Remarkable. Avalon’s expansive refresh includes: All Decked Out. Fresh décor in every public space, from flooring to furniture. Full Speed Ahead. A second Starlink antenna for even better high-speed internet. Sky Deck Rules. A chic new look – and furniture – for the Sky Deck, matching million-dollar views. Best Seat on the River. Enhanced Observation Lounge comfort for a front-row seat to the world. Strength in Motion.Upgraded fitness rooms featuring cutting-edge Kinesis weight machines for resistance training, along with an expanded selection of free weights. Pedal Perfection.Each ship now boasts 15 new bikes and 4 new e-bikes. An Elevated Fleet, Unfolding through 2026. This fleet-wide refresh is launching in phases: 2024: Avalon Passion, Avalon Imagery II, Avalon Poetry II, Avalon Panorama, Avalon Vista 2025: Avalon Artistry II, Avalon Impression, Avalon Illumination, Avalon Tapestry II, Avalon Tranquility II 2026: Avalon Expression & Avalon Visionary “At Avalon, we believe the perfectly designed river cruise starts with a perfectly designed ship, inviting guests to explore the world in comfort and style” said Pam Hoffee, president of Avalon Waterways. “With our fleet-wide refresh, we’re elevating details – from drapes on the widest-opening windows in river cruising and décor of our Panorama Lounges to fit-for-purpose fitness centres and fleet of new bikes – ensuring that our Suite Ships continue to set the standard for effortless, along the world’s waterways.” For more information, visit www.avalonwaterways.co.uk 13 June, 2025 -
Princess Cruises Announces UK and Europe 2027 Cruise Programme
Princess Cruises Announces UK and Europe 2027 Cruise Programme
Princess Cruises has unveiled its 2027 UK and Europe cruise programme will feature more than 200 sailings across five Princess ships – Sun Princess, Enchanted Princess, Majestic Princess, Sky Princess, and Caribbean Princess. Running from February to November 2027, the UK and Europe season includes 86 unique itineraries ranging from 7 to 46 days, and spans 108 destinations across 31 countries. The programme is on sale from today for members of Princess Cruises’ loyalty programme, Captain’s Circle. UK and Europe 2027 Programme Highlights Astro-Tourism Princess will offer two Total Solar Eclipse voyages in 2027, providing guests with the opportunity to view the eclipse during a 14-night cruise on Enchanted Princess or Sky Princess. With a prime viewing spot off the coast of Southern Spain, eclipse devotees can marvel at the celestial happening on August 2, 2027. Enchanted Princess sails the Mediterranean roundtrip from Civitavecchia (for Rome), whilst Sky Princess sails roundtrip Southampton on a Spain, France and Portugal voyage. Both cruises depart 24 July 2027. Fares start from £2,804pp*. Two Ships Sailing from Southampton Sky Princess and Majestic Princess return to the UK in 2027 to sail roundtrip Southampton itineraries, with 45 departures across the season, compared to 32 in 2026. Sky Princess sails on Northern Europe and Mediterranean itineraries, from March to October. Returning in 2027 is the 31-night Mediterranean Marvel, providing a month-long exploration to Spain, France, Italy, Turkey, Greece, and Malta. Fares start from £2,749pp*. Majestic Princess, which will sail its first-ever roundtrip Southampton season in 2026, returns to the UK in 2027 to sail the British Isles and Northern Europe. A unique feature on Majestic Princess is its indoor Hollywood Pool Club and Conservatory, providing an undercover relaxing space on top deck. Sun Princess Returns Princess Cruises’ first Sphere Class ship, Sun Princess, sails for eight months from April to November. Guests have a choice of voyages ranging from 7- to 32-nights, sailing from Barcelona, Civitavecchia, or Athens (Piraeus). Sun Princess will be joined by Enchanted Princess, offering itineraries departing from Civitavecchia, Trieste, Athens (Piraeus) and Istanbul between May to November. Guests have a choice of voyages ranging from 7-to 42-nights. Caribbean Princess sails roundtrip Copenhagen Caribbean Princess will sail roundtrip Copenhagen itineraries for the first time, taking guests to ports-of-call across the Baltic, including Oslo, Stockholm, and Helsinki. Caribbean Princess will offer nine 12-night itineraries from May through to August 2027. Fares start from £1,064pp* for a 12-night Baltic cruise, sailing roundtrip Copenhagen and calling at Visby, Stockholm, Helsinki, Tallinn, Riga, Klaipeda, Gdansk (Gdynia), Oslo, Skagen. Maiden Call to Aberdeen In 2027, Princess Cruises will make its maiden call to Aberdeen, Scotland. Caribbean Princess calls to Aberdeen on 24 August 2027 as part of a 16-night ‘British Isles and Canadian’ transatlantic cruise from Copenhagen, Denmark, to Boston, United States. Guests can enjoy activities including watching the world’s largest bottlenose dolphins and exploring the Speyside Whiskey Trail. Epic Voyages The 2027 UK and Europe season includes 22 transatlantic sailings, with departure/arrival cities including Boston, Fort Lauderdale, Port Canaveral, and Buenos Aires. These carefully crafted longer itineraries provide a deeper experience for a cruise holiday. From the midnight sun in the Arctic Circle to ancient landmarks and ruins, these immersive itineraries range in length from 14- to 46-days. Eithne Williamson, vice president Princess Cruises UK and Europe, said: “From castles to coastlines, our 2027 UK and Europe cruise programme provides ample opportunities for guests to explore the continent's rich history and breathtaking landscapes. Guests can immerse themselves in thoughtful tourism experiences, with our programme including 100 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and our 'More Ashore' overnight stays in iconic cities like Istanbul and Stockholm providing even more time for exploration. “We are delighted to offer our Captain's Circle members exclusive savings when booking early, meaning that they can secure the cruise they desire and the stateroom of their choice at a fantastic price. With an expansive selection of itineraries, ships, and destinations, we’re proud to offer something for every type of traveller—whether they’re seeking cultural immersion, scenic beauty, or relaxing escapes. Our commitment to great value ensures that guests enjoy unforgettable holiday happiness without compromise.” Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel agent, by calling 0344 338 8663 or by visiting the company's website at princess.com. Exclusive Early Bird Savings When booking a UK and Europe 2027 voyage before 30 June, guests can take advantage of Princess Cruises’ early bird savings of up to £500 per stateroom. In addition, Captain’s Circle members will receive exclusive savings up to £300 per stateroom when booking before 17 June, meaning that those eligible could save up to £800 per stateroom if they secure their cruise before June 17, 2025. General sale opens to the public from June 10, 2025. Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel agent, by calling 0344 338 8663 or by visiting the company's website at princess.com. 13 June, 2025 -
New ports added by TUI River Cruises for winter 2026-27
New ports added by TUI River Cruises for winter 2026-27
New ports of call in Serbia and Croatia on the River Danube are being introduced by Tui River Cruises in winter 2026. The winter itineraries will go on sale from July 3 offering 33 sailings across the entire fleet between November 2026 and April 2027. Four to seven-night river cruise options aim to provide more flexibility and choice for holidaymakers. The first winter season by new 190-passenger vessel Tui Aria (pictured) will see sailings on the Rhine. New Danube sailings by Tui Isla include new year and visits to Belgrade festive markets. A second Tui Airways flight from Gatwick to Vienna will serve both Tui Isla and Tui Maya including 16 itineraries. Alternative flight options with partner airlines will cover a range of destinations including Basel and Amsterdam sailings by Tui Aria. Festive sailings on The Danube and The Rhine will return with 11 sailings for the season with Christmas market itineraries and more new year celebrations across four ships - Tui Aria, Tui Isla, Tui Maya and Tui Skyla. Two ships, Tui Al Horeya and Tui Bahareya, will be deployed on the Nile for winter 2026 with direct flights from Gatwick and Manchester airport to Luxor. Prices start at £799 per person for the ‘Gluhwein on the Rhine’ winter 2026 itineraries which are available to book from July 3. Tui head of river cruises Katy Berzins said: “We’re excited to launch our largest winter programme providing our customers with more choice and flexibility than ever before. “With the introduction of new Serbian and Croatian ports on the Danube, the debut winter season for TUI Aria, and enhanced flight options, we’re making it easier for our guests to explore Europe’s most enchanting riverscapes.” 13 June, 2025 -
MSC GROUP CRUISE DIVISION OFFICIALLY INAUGURATES NEW TERMINAL IN THE PORT OF BARCELONA
MSC GROUP CRUISE DIVISION OFFICIALLY INAUGURATES NEW TERMINAL IN THE PORT OF BARCELONA
MSC Group’s Cruise Division officially inaugurated the new MSC Barcelona terminal on the occasion of the first call of EXPLORA II at the new terminal - the second ship from luxury lifestyle ocean travel brand, Explora Journeys. Dignitaries who attended the commemorative ribbon-cutting ceremony included Jose Antonio Santano Clavero, the Spanish government’s State Secretary for Transport and Sustainable Mobility, Central Government Delegate, Carlos Prieto, Fourth Deputy Mayor for the Area of Economy, Tax, Economic Promotion and Tourism , Jordi Valls, Albert Dalmau, Minister of the Presidency of the Government of Catalonia and Jose Alberto Carbonell, President of the Port of Barcelona along with Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman, Cruise Division, MSC Group, Gianluca Suprani SVP Global Port Development, MSC Cruises and Anna Nash, Global President, Explora Journeys. Pierfrancesco Vago said, “Barcelona has been a strategic partner for MSC Group for more than four decades and for MSC Cruises for more than 25 years, and our commitment is unwavering. The new terminal is not just an investment in modern port infrastructure but demonstrates that we are aligned with the city’s strategy for a more balanced and sustainable model of tourism, all whilst bringing positive economic benefits to the region. We look forward to this new chapter with the Port of Barcelona as our guests from MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys enjoy the benefits that this modern, innovative and sustainable cruise facility brings.” The landmark terminal was designed by renowned Catalonian architecture firm Ricardo Bofill Taller de Arquitectura. This avant-garde building has been designed to provide continuity with the cruise experience. From the moment passengers arrive, they set out on a seamless journey that reflects the elegance, comfort, and service they will find on board. The retail area, the spacious waiting lounge with generous seating, and the exclusive VIP lounge for our premium and luxury guests create an elevated pre-boarding experience with privileged views. Outside, ceramic cladding pays tribute to the rich Gaudi-inspired artistic history of Barcelona with a colour inspired by the sea. Carefully designed with a strong focus on environmental features and energy efficiency the terminal incorporates energy-saving technologies and sustainable materials. This includes solar panels and optimised natural light, to minimise the need for artificial lighting along with a rainwater collection system to supply water for toilets and landscaped areas to reduce water usage. The terminal has achieved Gold Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification in recognition of its energy efficiency and environmental responsibility. Shore to ship power connectivity will be available in 2027 when docked ships can switch off their engines, connect to the local power grid, eliminate emissions in port. This summer, MSC Cruises will have a choice of five ships offering embarkation in Barcelona - MSC World Europa, MSC Seaview, MSC Seaside, MSC Magnifica and MSC Orchestra as part of their sailings in the Mediterranean Sea. Luxury ship EXPLORA II will regularly call throughout the summer season with Barcelona as one of her main homeports. Explora Journeys’ EXPLORA II will sail through the enchanting waters of the Western Mediterranean this summer, offering a series of immersive journeys that begin or end in the vibrant city of Barcelona. From the sun-kissed shores of Sardinia to the colourful harbours of the French Riviera and the storied coastlines of Italy, each itinerary blends relaxed luxury with rich cultural discovery. On board, guests enjoy refined European elegance, ocean-inspired wellness, and curated experiences designed to deepen their connection to the sea and each destination. 13 June, 2025 -
MSC CRUISES UNVEILS A NEW ERA OF SPECIALITY DINING
MSC CRUISES UNVEILS A NEW ERA OF SPECIALITY DINING
MSC Cruises is bringing greater convenience, value and ease to its speciality restaurant offering worldwide with the launch of the line’s updated speciality restaurant experiences.The cruise line is introducing updated speciality restaurant menus and packages across its entire fleet, making it easier than ever before for guests to enjoy the range of gastronomic experiences on board and offering a fixed-fee menu for greater value and transparency.At the core of this new approach is putting guest choice and simplicity first, meaning greater value, variety and ease for guests, creating a seamless dining experience from start to finish.Highlights of the new speciality dining experience include:One menu, one price: Guests will now be able to choose from a rich variety of dishes out of the full restaurant menu, for one fixed price. This not only provides greater variety but also greater value and transparency, making speciality restaurants more accessible to everyone. Menus will allow guests to choose at least one starter, one main and one dessert for a fixed fee. Menus will also offer extra-special dishes, such as Ozaki Wagyu beef, for a small supplement charge.Flexible, customizable dining packages: Guests can now pre-purchase packages with one to four speciality dining experiences, which are more customizable than ever before. These are fully flexible and can be used to repeat favourite restaurants*, giving guests freedom to create their ideal onboard culinary itinerary.Greater value with advance purchase: Guests who purchase their speciality dining package before their cruise can enjoy savings of up to 20% off the price.Georg Schmickler, Senior Vice President On-Board Revenues at MSC Cruises, said: “with increasing demand from our guests for flexibility, transparency, and personalisation, this upgrade further strengthens our culinary product, offering today’s cruisers what they expect and deserve.”Stéphane Franchini, MSC Cruises Senior Director of Food and Beverage Product commented: “Simplified single-price menus mean greater transparency for guests, and customisable packages add flexibility to create a seamless dining experience for our guests.With these enhancements, MSC Cruises continues to redefine dining at sea, offering guests an unforgettable gastronomic journey with world-class cuisine and ultimate versatility.”MSC Cruises is known for offering unique and authentic gastronomic experiences on board its modern and glamorous ships. Using quality ingredients, guests can taste traditional favourites and sumptuous new flavours from around the world in a way that suits them – whether it be in the elegant main restaurants, more relaxed buffets or signature speciality restaurants.The new specialty restaurant packages are available to book now. Further enhancements are also being planned to make the experience even more streamlined and are expected to be announced at a later date.For more information about MSC Cruises’ speciality restaurant packages, visit here. 13 June, 2025 -
Holland America Line to return to Dover in 2027 as part of Europe programme
Holland America Line to return to Dover in 2027 as part of Europe programme
A third Holland America Line ship will be dedicated to sailing in northern Europe in 2027. Zuiderdam will join Nieuw Statendam and Rotterdam in the region while Oosterdam will continue as the line’s primary ship in the Mediterranean. Nieuw Statendam and Rotterdam will continue to homeport in Rotterdam, while Zuiderdam will cruise from Amsterdam. Nieuw Statendam will return to Dover in 2027, with alternate itineraries for those wishing to sail roundtrip from the UK. Both Zuiderdam and Rotterdam will also offer departures from Reykjavik in Iceland. Surveys of both current and prospective passengers show that nearly half of respondents rank northern Europe, including Iceland and Greenland, as one of the most appealing cruise destinations. A majority also rank fjord cruising as something of particular interest. Destinations covered with departures between April and December 2027 include Scandinavia, Greenland, the Baltics and the British Isles. Meanwhile, Oosterdam will operate 14 itineraries ranging from seven to 11 days in duration with departures from Barcelona, Piraeus, Trieste and Civitavecchia, the port for Rome. Deployment and itinerary planning vice president Paul Grigsby said: "Northern Europe is extremely popular with our guests for the ports of call and stunning scenery. “As a cruise line rooted in European heritage, we’re uniquely positioned to offer them one-of-a-kind explorations with an onboard experience that matches the region. "The destinations in the region are some of our highest-rated - fromstandout ports in Norway like Eidfjord and Bergen and scenic cruising inEyjafjörður, Iceland, to the UK’s Liverpool and Ireland’s Killybegs - this season provides guests more chances to experience everything Northern Europe has to offer." 13 June, 2025 -
MSC CRUISES OPENS WORLDS LARGEST CRUISE TERMINAL
MSC CRUISES OPENS WORLDS LARGEST CRUISE TERMINAL
MSC Cruises inaugurated the world’s largest and most advanced cruise terminal on Saturday at PortMiami. The new MSC Miami Cruise Terminal sets a global benchmark for cruise infrastructure as the first in the industry to implement a complete biometric journey with digital identity verification for a seamless embarkation experience. Imagined by global design firm Arquitectonica and built by Fincantieri Infrastructure, the 492,678 square foot facility is capable of processing up to 36,000 passengers daily and was developed with the guest experience at its core. As the first and last impression of a guest’s holiday, every step is carefully streamlined for a stress-free embarkation. The new terminal will serve both MSC Cruises’ and Explora Journeys’ ships sailing from PortMiami, including MSC Cruises’ new flagship,MSC World America, which will be named during a ceremony at the terminal on 9 April before she sets sail for her inaugural season in the Caribbean. From beginning to end – the MSC Miami Cruse Terminal streamlines processes including: Check in from the comfort of home:Guests can check in for their cruise online, via the MSC for Me app or the MSC Cruises website, uploading their travel documents, receiving their boarding pass in a matter of minutes, and preparing in advance for biometric processing, saving them valuable time when they enter the terminal. Arrive at the terminal with ease:Guests can arrive by car, bus, taxi or ride share without hassle. Those arriving by car can park in the terminal’s impressive six-level garage with over 2,400 spaces and reserve their parking spot in advance via the MSC for Me app or the MSC Cruises website. There is also a covered drop-off zone for buses, taxis and ride shares. All forms of arrival share a covered path straight to the terminal’s main entrance. Dropping your bags is a breeze:Guests who have checked in online can simply scan their boarding pass and drop their luggage at one of the secure, strategically placed drop-off points in the parking garage before continuing to the terminal. Check-in and security are faster than ever thanks to biometrics:Guests who have opted into the biometric journey can simply scan their passport and look at the camera of one of the terminal’s 18 biometric face pods for validation. The 20 security lanes that follow ensure a fast, efficient, and seamless screening process. Relax before your cruise:Guests will enjoy a terminal bathed in natural light, where Biscayne Bay’s sparkling waters reflect through the facility’s expansive glass façade.Before guests embark, they can take a moment to unwind in one of the comfortable waiting areas situated throughout the spacious terminal. Guests of the MSC Yacht Club, the cruise line’s luxury “ship-within-a-ship” concept, will also have exclusive access to a private lounge to enjoy premium drinks and snacks, the ultimate luxury prior to embarkation. One last step to embarkation, powered by biometrics: The terminal uses 22 biometric E-gates to finalize the embarkation process before guests enter the gangway. With onboarding now performed terminal side, rather than on the vessel, guests can start their holiday immediately. Seamless disembarkation and luggage collection:Guests will benefit from an easy, quick disembarkation thanks to an advanced baggage handling and processing system. That way, guests can get home quicker and get a head start on planning their next cruise. More about MSC Miami Cruse Terminal’s artwork:Inside the terminal, guests will discover seven curated works of art commissioned through the Miami-Dade County Art in Public Places programme. The most striking piece—a first-of-its-kind is a 10,816-square-foot digitally projected installation—which adorns the exterior of the terminal, using real-time NOAA oceanic data to create an ever-evolving display of tides, currents, and weather patterns. Additional exclusive artworks enhance the MSC Yacht Club private lounge, offering a refined pre-cruise experience. The MSC Miami Cruse Terminal In numbers: 492,678 square feet – making it the world’s largest cruise terminal Spans 4 levels The first terminal in the world to be able to welcome three cruise ships simultaneously Features 7 pieces of artwork including a 10,816-square-foot digital art installation displayed on the outside of the terminal Capable of processing up to 36,000 guests daily 2,400+ - Parking spots available in the adjacent parking garage 42 – Luggage screening machines 18 – Biometric face pods verify passport and identification 22 – E-gates used for embarkation 13 June, 2025 -
Holland America Line to feature in new eight-part TV series
Holland America Line to feature in new eight-part TV series
Holland America Line will take centre stage in a new eight-part TV series, airing on Channel 4 this summer. The series, which has a working title of ‘Secrets of Supercruisers’, will document the experience onboard Holland America Line’s Rotterdam and Nieuw Statendam ships across three voyages, sailing the Panama Canal, Caribbean, South America, Canary Islands and North Africa, including Holland America’s first season from Dover in a decade. The series, produced by Crackit TV, will share a behind the scenes look at life onboard, demonstrating what it takes to operate a cruise ship around the clock. Each hour-long episode will feature various ports of call to showcase the shore experiences on offer, including rum tasting in the Dominican Republic; horse riding on RelaxAway Half Moon Cay, Holland America Line's private island in the Bahamas; and a sustainable agriculture tour and wicker basket toboggan rides in Madeira. Karen Farndell, UK director of sales and marketing at Holland America Line, said: “Hosting the film crew across three voyages was a great opportunity to spotlight everything that makes Holland America Line truly exceptional. “From our inspiring destinations to the incredible service delivered around the clock by our dedicated crew, we hope this series will capture the magic of our cruises like never before. But what excites us most is the unique value this brings to our travel agent partners. It’s a game-changer - an immersive, visual training tool that empowers agents to sell with confidence, deepen their brand expertise, and inspire their clients with real, tangible insights. As we celebrate our first season sailing from Dover in a decade, there’s never been a better time for agents to connect with the Holland America Line experience and turn that knowledge into bookings.” For more information on Holland America Line, consult a travel agent, visit hollandamerica.com or call 0344 338 8607. 13 June, 2025 -
Introducing Avalon After Dark
Introducing Avalon After Dark
Who says the river cruise adventure ends with the sun? In 2026, Avalon is turning up the night with Avalon After Dark – a dazzling new way to experience river cruising after hours. From dedicated entertainment to more after-dark port adventures and Sky Grill dinners under the stars. Whether sipping a perfectly crafted new cocktail on the Sky Deck, swaying to live music in the Panorama Lounge or stepping ashore for a moonlit city escape, Avalon After Dark ensures that every moment – day or night – is one to remember. “Sunsets don’t need to signal the end of the day’s adventure on a river cruise,” said Pam Hoffee, president of Avalon Waterways. “Instead, we’re keeping the night alive with unforgettable experiences, from moonlit toasts on the Sky Deck to impromptu dance parties and late-night explorations made possible by overnight docking in legendary cities and settings.” Raise a Glass to Raising the Bar. Back in 2023, Avalon Waterways raised the bar on Happy Hour by inviting guests to enjoy a selection of complimentary drinks before dinner. Now, guests can raise a glass to an all-new bar menu, with an elevated collection of premium and non-alcoholic cocktails. The new menu, with an exclusive lineup of cocktails designed to tantalize taste buds and turn every sip into an experience, was created by world-renowned mixologist Martin Hudák. Dinner With a View—And a Breeze. Dinners on the Sky Deck? Yes, please! New for 2026, Avalon is introducing Sky Grill Dinners – an open-air dining experience where fresh flavours and sunset views take centre stage. Think sizzling specialties, locally inspired dishes and crisp wines, all made for moonlight. The river cruise line is also doubling down on Sky Deck drink service, inviting guests to enjoy warm evenings under the stars, enjoying wine, beer and cocktails – served with a side of moonlight. A Little Lounge, A Little Let Loose. And, as the sun sets, the Panorama Lounge is set to light up with live music, special performances, themed trivia, karaoke and impromptu dance parties. Guests are invited to belt out a classic, test their knowledge over nightly cocktail specials or lose themselves in the rhythm of live entertainment. Avalon After Dark is encouraging guests to linger in the Panorama Lounge, sipping, swaying and savouring longer evenings on board. Moonlit Ports & Midnight Pubs. Who says the best sightseeing happens in daylight? As part of its Avalon After Dark program, Avalon is also encouraging guests to experience Europe’s most legendary cities and settings after the streetlights flicker on with more overnight docking in places like: Budapest. Sip cocktails at a ruin bar or enjoy the beauty of Buda Castle as it lights up the night sky. Vienna. Take in a classical concert, enjoy a Viennese coffee at dusk or indulge in a midnight craving of Sachertorte. Amsterdam. Wander the canals, find a speakeasy or enjoy live jazz in a candlelit club. Rüdesheim. Stoll the Drosselgasse where cozy wine taverns stay lively well into the night. Avignon. Enjoy a moonlit walk past the Palais des Papes or dine alfresco in a starlit square. Avalon’s commitment to late night docking in some of the world’s most fascinating places invite guests to linger longer, explore deeper and soak up the magic of the world’s best sights by night. “We’re re-writing the script for river cruising after hours,” added Hoffee. “Avalon After Dark promises evenings worth staying up for.” 13 June, 2025 -
Iain Baillie to lead Cunard UK and EMEA sales team in newly created role
Iain Baillie to lead Cunard UK and EMEA sales team in newly created role
Iain Baillie will join Cunard June 2 in a newly created role, leading the UK and EMEA sales team. He moves from sister cruise brand Carnival Cruise Line, where he has been international sales vice-president. In his new role, Baillie will report to David Jones, vice-president of global marketing and EMEA sales. The luxury cruise line said he has “a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success”. “His leadership within this expanded role will be instrumental in driving Cunard’s commercial performance and supports Cunard’s ambition to achieve continued growth as a four-ship fleet,” said a statement from Cunard. Baillie said: “After 13 years at sister company Carnival Cruise Line, I am delighted to be joining the talented team at Cunard at such a pivotal moment in the brand’s remarkable 185-year history. “I look forward to leading the UK and EMEA sales team, further strengthening Cunard’s valued partnerships across the UK travel trade. “I remain firmly committed to supporting our travel partners with the commercial tools, high-quality service, and collaboration they need to drive continued mutual success.” Jones added: “I’m thrilled that Iain will be joining Cunard in June to lead our ambitious plans for our UK and EMEA sales teams. “Cunard is a truly iconic brand and I know he will relish the opportunity to tell our unique story, highlighting our world famous service and on board offering to agents across the region.” 13 June, 2025