Alaska is a realm of breathtaking landscapes and unparalleled wildlife, drawing adventurers from all over the globe in search of its iconic features—glaciers, whales, and bears. Yet, among these majestic animals, bears can be elusive, making any opportunity to observe them in their natural habitat particularly compelling. This article chronicles an excursion from Ketchikan to
Cruise
The Seven Seas Explorer, often dubbed the epitome of luxury cruising, made waves upon its launch nearly a decade ago. Designed with lavish finishes and extravagant features, including the now-famous Regent Suite, this vessel was hailed as one of the most magnificent ships ever constructed. But as time has passed and the cruise line has
As the winter chill settles in, it may seem counterintuitive to start planning for autumn getaways; however, avid travelers know that prime destinations await their discovery year-round. Among these, Troy, New York, stands out as a vibrant jewel that perfectly encapsulates the essence of fall. While there may be no factual basis for claiming that
As the popularity of cruise vacations continues to surge, so too does the incidence of gastrointestinal illnesses aboard these floating resorts. In 2024, cruise ships experienced a troubling spike in outbreaks of gastrointestinal illnesses, particularly norovirus, raising red flags for both health officials and potential travelers. With the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Hurtigruten, the esteemed Norwegian cruise line renowned for its spectacular coastal voyages, has revived its enticing “Sell Three, Sail Free” incentive program aimed at travel advisors. This initiative, designed to boost sales while rewarding advisors, is back and will remain in effect until April 30. Under this program, travel professionals who successfully book three eligible
As airlines work toward making air travel more inclusive for neurodivergent individuals, innovative initiatives are paving the way for greater accessibility. One such program, Wings for Autism, has emerged as a transformative force, helping families navigate the complexities of the airport experience. Held at venues nationwide, this initiative provides a structured environment where neurodivergent travelers
The cruise industry is on the precipice of an exhilarating evolution as it readies to welcome a remarkable lineup of new ships in 2025. With a total of twelve vessels scheduled to make their debut, this year aims to build upon the successes of 2024, which saw groundbreaking introductions such as the Icon of the
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) recently made headlines by reinstating Jason Montague as the Chief Luxury Officer, a strategic appointment aimed at revitalizing its luxury brand offerings. This resurgence not only marks Montague’s return to the forefront of high-end cruise management, but it also reflects the company’s commitment to expanding its foothold in the upscale
Carnival Cruise Line recently marked the conclusion of its service from Charleston, South Carolina, with the last roundtrip voyage of the Carnival Sunshine. This shift is significant not just for the cruise line but also for the local economy and the culture surrounding maritime travel in Charleston. The ship embarked on its final journey on
Carnival Corporation, a leader in the cruise industry, is shifting gears under CEO Josh Weinstein’s guidance. During the latest fourth-quarter earnings call, Weinstein acknowledged a pressing need to boost awareness and popularity of Carnival’s private island destinations—a domain where they have been overshadowed by competitors. In an era where cruise lines are increasingly diversifying their
Cruising across the open waters typically conjures images of sunsets, lively gatherings, and the beautiful complexities of maritime life. However, aboard the Celebrity Beyond, the narrative shifted with the presence of an extraordinary companion—Bug Naked, a hairless cat whose charm and charisma proved pivotal for both crew and passengers alike. As the beloved pet of
Whittier, Alaska, a small, remote community known for its stark natural beauty and historical significance, is entering a new era of tourism with the unveiling of Huna Totem Corporation’s $80 million cruise terminal. Nestled in the captivating Prince William Sound, the city—located about 60 miles southeast of Anchorage—has transformed its waterfront with a modern, double-berth
The year 2024 has been pivotal for the cruising industry, as it has navigated through a myriad of global events and trends. From geopolitical unrest impacting key destinations to notable advancements from cruise lines themselves, the narratives that captivated readers this year were diverse and revealing. This article delves into the primary themes and developments
The cruise industry, once gripped by the tumultuous waves of the pandemic and uncertain future, is gearing up for a new period of stability. With projections indicating a calming phase in 2025, the industry’s landscape is transforming, aided by forward bookings and careful capacity management. Nevertheless, underlying economic factors could create ripples that challenge operators
As we approach 2025, there’s a palpable sense of optimism surrounding the luxury cruise industry, especially for brands aiming to make a significant mark in a competitive landscape. While the United States remains the focal point of opportunity, the economic indicators suggest a robust environment for growth. The buoyant demand for luxury cruises indicates that
Carnival Corp. concluded the fiscal year with impressive financial results, setting a new revenue benchmark of $25 billion. This figure marks a significant 16% growth compared to the previous year, where the company recorded $21.6 billion. The surge in revenue underscores the robust recovery trajectory of the cruise industry following the disruptions caused by the
In a move that has stirred significant discontent within the cruise industry, Mexico announced a proposed tax of $42 for each cruise passenger entering the country. Initially set for implementation on January 1, this tax was postponed to July 1 following strong opposition from cruise operators. The intention behind this tax has been framed as
On a fateful Tuesday, the serene South Pacific nation of Vanuatu experienced a seismic shock that would ripple through its infrastructure and communities. A 7.3 magnitude earthquake struck approximately 18 miles west of the capital, Port Vila, a bustling city known for its vibrant culture and stunning landscapes. The earthquake not only jolted the ground