The cruise industry presents a wealth of opportunities for travel advisors, yet its competitive nature can serve as a daunting challenge for those trying to make their mark. During the recent CruiseWorld event in Fort Lauderdale, a panel of high-profile sales executives from various cruise lines shared their insights and best practices for advisors seeking
Cruise
Cruising has evolved significantly over the years, with the advent of small-ship cruises bringing fresh perspectives to travel enthusiasts. Unlike their larger counterparts, small-ship cruise lines offer an unparalleled experience where the vessel itself becomes a destination. It’s not merely about reaching a particular port but experiencing the unique amenities and charm that small ships
Princess Cruises, a prominent name in the cruise industry, finds itself in a predicament with the Regal Princess, a ship that has encountered significant operational challenges recently. Initially connected to a major technical issue with one of its power generators, the ship has faced the cancellation of three consecutive sailings, which is a troubling sign
In today’s competitive travel industry, the importance of adaptability and risk-taking cannot be overstated. As travel advisors grapple with evolving consumer preferences and market dynamics, the call to embrace discomfort as a catalyst for growth is more critical than ever. Ken Muskat, managing director of Scenic Group USA, recently highlighted this philosophy at the CruiseWorld
In an ever-evolving travel landscape, cruise lines constantly seek ways to enhance guest experiences and foster loyalty among their patrons. MSC Cruises has taken a significant step in this context by introducing the Blue Diamond tier to its Voyagers Club loyalty program. This new tier, positioned above the existing Diamond level, signifies a strategic move
As Royal Caribbean continues to navigate the ever-changing landscape of the cruise industry, the recent launch of its flagship vessel, the Icon of the Seas, marks a significant milestone in its journey. Celebrated for its innovative design and guest experience, this first ship in the Icon class has dramatically raised the bar for passenger satisfaction
The recent CruiseWorld conference in Fort Lauderdale served as a vibrant reminder of the resilience and enthusiasm that permeates the cruise industry. The convention, which drew around 1,200 attendees, showcased Navy blue t-shirts adorned with the slogan “travel agents rock!” These shirts symbolized not only a sense of community but also the critical role that
In recent years, the cruise industry has witnessed incredible growth, with major companies achieving record-breaking performance figures. However, beneath these glossy statistics lies a stark reality: the ongoing challenge of environmental sustainability. As Jason Liberty, CEO of Royal Caribbean Group and chair of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), pointed out at the recent CruiseWorld
The travel industry is notoriously complex, with various players vying for attention in a market characterized by constant change. Internova Travel Group, an entity known for its extensive portfolio of brands, has been navigating this intricate landscape under the leadership of J.D. O’Hara. Since his appointment as CEO in January 2020, O’Hara has embarked on
When venturing aboard a cruise ship themed around the renowned Jimmy Buffett and his laid-back ethos, the anticipation is palpable. Margaritaville at Sea promises passengers a delightful escape steeped in relaxation and revelry. My recent journey on the Margaritaville at Sea Islander set sail from Tampa, Florida, whisking me away on a vibrant four-day cruise
The cruise industry, known for its vibrant and luxurious getaways, is currently facing a myriad of challenges and opportunities that could reshape the landscape of travel. As more cruise lines launch an influx of new ships, concerns about oversaturation arise. Industry experts like Scholes warn that an excessive number of vessels could diminish the overall
The cruise industry has consistently evolved, leveraging customer preferences while exploring new markets. Royal Caribbean Group is at the forefront of this transformation, launching a new private destination called Perfect Day Mexico, expected to open in 2027 next to the Costa Maya cruise port. Building on the spectacular success of its existing Perfect Day at
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH), which encompasses renowned brands such as Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, demonstrated remarkable financial prowess in the third quarter of the fiscal year. The company reported a staggering $2.8 billion in revenue, reflecting an impressive 11% increase from the prior year. This surge not only signifies
Royal Caribbean Group has experienced a significant influx of first-time cruisers in 2023, a trend highlighted by CEO Jason Liberty during the company’s Q3 earnings call. The debut of the Utopia of the Seas, the company’s sixth Oasis-class ship, is a prominent factor in this growth. Since setting sail from Port Canaveral, Florida, in July,
In the ever-evolving world of travel, the introduction of innovative technology can reshape the way professionals interact with clients. Cruisen, a groundbreaking cruise-planning platform, is set to make a significant impact on the industry by debuting at CruiseWorld in Fort Lauderdale next month. This tool aims to streamline communication between travel advisors and their clients,
As a cultural icon, Taylor Swift has woven stories of love, heartbreak, and resilience into the fabric of her music. Her fans—affectionately known as Swifties—have formed a vibrant community that capitalizes on the principles of friendship and inclusion. The narratives encapsulated in her lyrics resonate deeply with a generation that finds refuge in her songs.
The cruise industry in Alaska is undergoing a significant transformation, particularly in light of recent regulatory changes that aim to address concerns regarding overtourism. This fall, Juneau officials announced an agreement with various cruise lines to impose operational limits on ship numbers and passenger capacities, which is set to take effect in 2026. The move
In a strategic move to enhance its portfolio of vacation destinations, Royal Caribbean Group announced plans to establish a Royal Beach Club in the picturesque South Pacific archipelago of Vanuatu. This revelation came during CEO Jason Liberty’s Q3 earnings call, highlighting a significant direction for the cruise line’s offerings. This commitment to Vanuatu marks a