The expedition cruise sector is witnessing a transformative phase with the impactful appointment of Steve Smotrys as the managing director and senior vice president of commercial operations for HX, formerly known as Hurtigruten Expeditions. This strategic move symbolizes HX’s intent to broaden its footprint and enhance its appeal in the North American market, primarily focusing
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Traveling across time zones can often feel like a disorienting game of chance where the stakes are your well-being. As travel becomes more accessible and frequent, the challenge of adjusting to new time zones and mitigating jet lag has grown increasingly pertinent. In the wake of international travel’s surge, innovative solutions have emerged, notably the
The Caribbean island of Dominica is on the cusp of a transformative journey, poised to significantly enhance its tourism infrastructure and capacity by 2030. With a vision to more than double its annual visitors to 1.5 million by the end of the decade, Dominica’s recent initiatives demonstrate a deliberate move to position itself as a
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is making significant strides in enhancing the guest experience by introducing its new More at Sea package. This innovative offering will replace the previous Free at Sea and Free at Sea Plus pricing models, aiming to elevate the overall cruise experience by providing a more luxurious and comprehensive value proposition beginning
On October 1st, the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) initiated a strike that has significantly affected port operations across the United States, spanning from Maine to Texas. This labor action marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing dialogue about wages and working conditions within the maritime industry. With a focus on increasing pay and opposing automation,
In a remarkable showcase of resilience and strategic marketing, Carnival Corp. has revealed that nearly 50% of its inventory for the year 2025 has already been sold off. The news was announced during the company’s recent Q3 earnings call, where CEO Josh Weinstein emphasized that bookings for 2026 are beginning with unprecedented momentum. This assertive
Breaking into luxury cruise sales can seem daunting, especially considering the intricacies of the market. Dondra Ritzenthaler, the CEO of Azamara, offers a strategic perspective on how travel advisors can seamlessly transition their approach to appeal to a more upscale clientele. The luxury cruise segment is not merely about providing a product; it’s about crafting
In a surprising turn of events, Gebhard Rainer transitioned from the tropical allure of Sandals Resorts International to the chilling expeditions offered by HX, previously known as Hurtigruten Expeditions. This shift not only highlights Rainer’s versatility but also underscores a broader trend in the travel industry where sustainability and immersive travel experiences are becoming paramount.
Recently, from the opulent balconies of the Fridtjof Nansen, Gebhard Rainer, the freshly appointed CEO of HX, expressed a pivotal moment in the cruise industry—one that marks the brand’s newfound independence. Formerly known as Hurtigruten Expeditions, HX is currently undergoing a significant transformation, set to culminate in November 2023 with a complete separation from its
The revival of Victory Cruise Lines marks a significant moment in the world of river and coastal cruising. Following the turbulent dissolution of American Queen Voyages earlier this year, Victory has embarked on a mission to breathe new life into two vessels that previously navigated these tumultuous waters. Acquired by John Waggoner, the former CEO
The emergence of Hurricane Helene has instigated significant disruption in travel plans, particularly affecting cruise lines and land-based tourism in the Gulf region. Initially forming into a hurricane on Wednesday, Helene swiftly made its way northward through the Gulf of Mexico, prompting swift reactions from cruise companies and travel authorities ahead of its anticipated landfall
Carnival Cruise Line is set to unveil a gastronomic paradise at their new private destination, Celebration Key, located on the idyllic Grand Bahama Island. Slated to open in July, this destination promises to deliver a diverse and delectable dining experience that caters to various tastes. With over 30 food and beverage establishments lined up, the
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Alaskan cruising has experienced a remarkable surge in demand. The cessation of operations during lockdowns led many to develop a newfound appreciation for travel, particularly to destinations that offer natural beauty and cultural richness, such as Alaska. Cruise lines have responded to this enthusiasm by investing in larger,
As the cruise industry gears up for its Q3 earnings reports, attention is drawn to Carnival Corporation, poised to be the first major player to unveil its performance metrics. With its fiscal quarter concluding on August 31, Carnival will kick off the earnings season, followed closely by Royal Caribbean Group and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings,
CruiseWorld, an esteemed gathering orchestrated by the Northstar Travel Group, is set to return to the Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center from November 6 to 8. This year’s event will see the collaborative efforts of Visit Lauderdale, proudly stepping in as the official destination sponsor. For travel advisors eager to seize networking and learning
In the intricate tapestry of the hospitality and travel industry, few transitions carry the weight of resurrection. This is precisely where Mike Flaskey finds himself, just one month into his role as CEO of Hornblower Group. His appointment comes on the heels of a tumultuous period for the company, which navigated the treacherous waters of
Virgin Voyages, the trailblazer in providing innovative adult-only cruise experiences, continues to elevate its offerings with the imminent enhancement of its flagship vessel, the Scarlet Lady. Scheduled for a detailed drydock from November 13 to 28, 2023, this upgrade signifies a commitment to refining guest experiences. By introducing additional luxurious suites, enhanced dining options, and
In an era where the desire for adventure often collides with the need for luxury, the Four Seasons Explorer distinguishes itself as a premier vessel catering to both thrill-seekers and those who appreciate opulence. For over two decades, this floating paradise has been charred into the consciousness of high-end travelers, and its recent shift from