In recent years, businesses across various sectors have turned to loyalty programs to enhance customer retention and increase customer lifetime value. While this trend is prominent in fast-food chains and airlines, the cruise industry has historically faced challenges in cultivating lasting loyalty. However, as consumer expectations evolve, expedition cruise lines are beginning to adapt their
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The travel industry is currently grappling with a phenomenon known as “normalization,” a term that encapsulates the shift from explosive post-pandemic recovery to a steadier state of growth. This concept was a focal point at the recent Global Summit hosted by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) in Perth, Australia. Industry experts convened to
As the travel sector continues to rebound from the devastation wrought by the COVID-19 pandemic, the term “normalization” emerges prominently in discussions concerning the industry’s trajectory. This concept hints at the gradual return to pre-pandemic growth rates, albeit against a backdrop where those rates appear to be leveling off. During the recent World Travel &
The SS United States, once a crown jewel of maritime transport, now faces a poignant conclusion to its storied life. This monumental vessel, celebrated for its speed and grandeur during the mid-20th century, is potentially set to become an artificial reef off the coast of Florida—raising questions about its legacy and the future of historical
Hurricane Milton has forced the temporary closure of several major ports in Florida, causing significant disruptions to cruise operations. As cruise ships sit stranded at sea, the implications of these port closures are being felt across multiple cruise lines and their passengers, highlighting the challenges posed by natural disasters on the cruise industry. Florida’s bustling
Royal Caribbean International is set to expand its portfolio of exclusive travel destinations with the upcoming launch of Perfect Day Mexico. Slated for a 2027 debut, this new private destination will be located in Mahahual, a picturesque locale south of Cozumel, in the beautiful Quintana Roo region of Mexico. This endeavor follows the successful model
After a protracted absence due to escalating political turmoil in Haiti, Royal Caribbean International is on the cusp of reinstating its services to Labadee, its exclusive port of call. The Adventure of the Seas is set to be the inaugural ship back, with the Symphony of the Seas following shortly after, prompted by modifications to
In a decisive turn of events, residents of Juneau, Alaska, have largely voted against a proposed limitation on cruise ship operations in their port. Preliminary voting results indicate that approximately 60% of participants rejected Proposition #2, which sought to ban large cruise ships—those carrying 250 or more passengers—from docking on Saturdays and July 4th starting
The Caribbean and Bermuda regions are often heralded as the epitome of tropical vacations, alluring travelers with promises of pristine beaches and vibrant cultures. However, as Hurricane Milton approaches these idyllic locales, cruise lines have been forced to quickly adapt their itineraries to ensure passenger safety. The impending storm, projected to reach Category 5 strength,
The cruise industry is undergoing a significant transformation as lines adapt to the evolving desires of travelers. At the forefront of this change is Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), which is transitioning from its previous offerings under the ‘Free at Sea’ program to a revamped package called ‘More at Sea,’ set to launch on January 1.
The cruise industry, once on the ropes due to the global pandemic, is now riding an impressive wave of recovery, with Carnival Corporation leading the charge. Under the guidance of its CEO, Josh Weinstein, the company’s return to profitability is not merely anecdotal but substantiated by robust financial metrics that reflect a renaissance in the
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
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