Cruise

In a surprising move this week, Carnival Cruise Line has implemented a price hike for its Cheers! beverage package, particularly affecting guests on longer voyages. As cruise enthusiasts anticipate the upcoming winter Caribbean season, the daily cost for this popular package has escalated to $82.54, a noticeable jump from the previous rate of $70.74 for

Explora Journeys is set to debut its third vessel, the Explora III, in the summer of 2026, marking a significant advancement in luxury cruising. Designed to traverse the scenic waters of western and northern Europe—from the rugged landscapes of Iceland and Greenland to the culturally rich coasts of Canada and the U.S.—this ship promises an

Mexico’s Senate has recently approved a contentious law that imposes a $42 immigration fee on cruise ship passengers, prompting significant backlash from the tourism sector. This decision came after the measure was passed in the lower house and is set to take effect in 2025. While the rationale behind the fee may seem to align

In the world of luxury cruising, differentiation is crucial, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises is taking bold steps to set itself apart. The brand’s recently unveiled campaign, titled “Nobody Does It Better,” encapsulates its commitment to exceptional service and unparalleled experiences. With the tagline “Unrivaled at Sea,” Regent aims to elevate not just its brand

Eric Stonestreet, the beloved actor best known for his portrayal of Cameron Tucker on ABC’s hit sitcom “Modern Family,” has embraced a surprising new role – that of godfather to the Norwegian Aqua, a ship presented by Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL). Prior to this opportunity, Stonestreet had never experienced life on the open ocean, a

In a bold move that aims to redefine the cruising landscape, Virgin Voyages has introduced a groundbreaking annual pass. This innovative offering allows travelers the freedom to set sail on any of the cruise line’s ships for an entire year. Touted as an industry first, the pass permits access to all voyages with a remarkable

In a standout financial report released in mid-November, Viking Holdings set itself apart from the crowd of cruise lines by announcing that it had already secured bookings for 70% of its available cabins for 2025. This figure is not only remarkable for the cruise industry—a sector accustomed to securing future reservations—but also considerably outsized for

Recently, Mexico’s Congress approved a controversial $42 passenger tax aimed at cruise travelers, raising concerns among industry stakeholders about the potential ramifications on the tourism economy. The Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA), representing major cruise lines, has warned that this new levy could deter tourists from choosing Mexico for their cruise itineraries, marking a possible shift

Cruise lines have long relied on gratuities as a significant component of their service model. Recent increases in automatic tipping rates raise questions about consumer reactions and the evolving landscape of hospitality service expectations. Not only do these changes reflect the cruise industry’s efforts to adapt to economic pressures, but they also provide insights into

The recent decision by Mexico’s lower house of Congress to impose a $42 immigration levy on each cruise passenger has sent shockwaves through the cruise ship industry. This unforeseen tax not only raises questions about the financial implications for the cruise market in Mexico but also sparks a broader discussion about the nation’s approach to

The travel industry is undergoing significant changes in how it markets experiences to consumers. A clear example of this evolution is Lindblad Expeditions, a company that has made strategic moves to align itself more closely with the renowned National Geographic brand. As the travel landscape shifts and competition intensifies, the company’s recent rebranding to National

In a noteworthy pivot from its previous entertainment strategy, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has revamped its on-board offerings, eliminating Broadway-style productions in favor of more compact and engaging shows. This change, as articulated by NCL Holdings CEO Harry Sommer at the recent CruiseWorld conference, reflects a broader ethos centered on enhancing guest experiences while mitigating

As consumer habits evolve, the landscape of holiday shopping is undergoing a profound transformation. Once regarded as a mere shopping holiday, Black Friday has transcended its original confines to become a full-fledged travel booking season. In an environment where urgency meets savvy spending, the travel industry is now presenting deals that begin well before the

Celestyal Cruises, a specialized cruise line focusing on the enchanting Greek islands and the captivating regions of the eastern Mediterranean, is embarking on a significant transformation in its pricing strategy and ship offerings. Brandon Townsley, Vice President and Managing Director for North America, shared insights into the brand’s operations within the U.S. market and their

Carnival Corporation, a giant in the cruise industry, has made significant changes to its leadership, particularly affecting three of its major cruise lines: Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, and Seabourn Cruises. Beginning December 2, Gus Antorcha will shift from his position as president of Holland America Line to take the helm at Princess Cruises. This

The cruise industry faces a remarkable transformation as the demand for sustainability intensifies. With over 60 new ships anticipated to launch in the coming years, there is an urgent need for these floating giants to shift towards environmentally friendly practices. The pressure stems not just from consumer preferences but also from environmental authorities in Europe

In the sprawling and complex world of travel, the role of travel advisors has evolved drastically, extending beyond mere sales pitches for vacation packages. Today, advisors are the bridge connecting consumers to some of the most sophisticated offerings in global tourism, including intricate cruise options, diverse accommodations, and personalized travel experiences. As custodians of extensive

In the realm of luxury travel, there exists a hidden treasure that appeals to those seeking more than just the standard cruise experience. The SeaDream Yacht Club is an intoxicating blend of personalized service, intimate settings, and culinary excellence that captivates repeat visitors year after year. I had the privilege of sailing on the SeaDream