In a significant shift aimed at enhancing customer experience, Celestyal Cruises, a prominent Greek cruise line known for its immersive Greek itineraries, has announced a pivotal restructuring of its fare offerings. This new approach, effective from December 11, is set to redefine how guests engage with the cruise experience, especially with the introduction of the
Cruise
The cruise industry has experienced tumultuous shifts due to the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to significant changes in how consumers book their voyages. At the forefront of this transformation is Oceania Cruises, a brand that has adapted adeptly to the evolving landscape. Frank A. Del Rio, president of Oceania Cruises, recently spoke at CruiseWorld, sharing insights
In an era where guest satisfaction drives business success, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) has introduced a transformative concept called ROEx, or Return on Experience. This term was presented during the company’s Investor Day and has since sparked conversations about how cruise lines can better cater to customer preferences. The visionary behind ROEx, NCLH CEO
Crystal Cruises is poised for a significant expansion, announcing a firm order for a third luxury cruise ship to be constructed by the esteemed shipbuilder Fincantieri. Set for delivery in 2032, this ship will complement the two others whose order was recently solidified following a memorandum of understanding in June. This bold step signifies not
Since its inception in 2022, Margaritaville at Sea has been on a tumultuous journey in the cruise industry—a path marked by promise, challenges, and significant transformation. Originally entering the market with a modest two-night cruise aboard an aging vessel, the cruise line faced an uphill battle. However, the tides seem to be turning. Under the
Traveling is often perceived as a chance to explore new cultures, cuisines, and vistas, but when it comes to LGBTQ+ travelers, the experience transcends mere sightseeing. The world of cruising has historically offered predominantly traditional itineraries, often leaving discerning LGBTQ+ individuals feeling somewhat sidelined or required to engineer their unique experience within larger groups. Thankfully,
Celebrity Cruises is not resting on its laurels, as the cruise line prepares to unveil its newest Edge-class ship, the Celebrity Xcel, in November 2024. However, the company’s gaze is firmly fixed on the horizon, embarking on an ambitious new initiative known as Project Nirvana. The brand president, Laura Hodges Bethge, shared insights about the
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
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