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
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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
As the sun began its ascent over the horizon, I stepped onto my balcony, my heart racing with anticipation as our ship approached Ocean Cay, a private island and marine sanctuary managed by MSC Cruises in the serene expanse of the Bahamas. The transformation of this once industrial land into a tranquil paradise is nothing
In an intensely competitive market, the cruise industry continually strives to elevate the passenger experience through unique culinary offerings. For decades, top cruise lines have looked to the culinary world for partnerships with renowned chefs to create dining experiences that are both sophisticated and memorable. Crystal Cruises has recognized the necessity of adapting to these
Bar Harbor, a picturesque town nestled along the New England coastline, faces a pivotal moment in November as residents prepare to vote on the controversial 1,000-passenger daily limit for cruise ship visitors. Initially enacted during a referendum in November 2022, this regulation aims to control the influx of cruise passengers—a move that has sparked passionate
In an exciting development for adventure travel enthusiasts, G Adventures has unveiled plans to launch a fleet of five 10-passenger sailing yachts for its 2025 itineraries in the stunning Greek islands. This forward-thinking initiative marks a significant evolution in how travelers can explore the rich culture and breathtaking landscapes of Greece. The introduction of these
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is poised to make waves in the cruise industry with its upcoming Prima Plus class vessels: Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Luna, set to launch in 2025 and 2026, respectively. Building on the foundation laid by the Prima class, which debuted in 2022, these new ships promise to elevate the cruising experience
In the cruise industry, the traditional format of a week-long voyage often leaves little room for additional exploration at the starting or ending destinations. As Jean-Paul Rodrigue, a maritime business administration professor at Texas A&M University-Galveston, points out, travelers usually operate within tight vacation schedules. Their main objective is to maximize their limited time off,