Disney Cruise Line has been identified as an area of “enormous” opportunities by Disney’s CFO Hugh Johnston. The cruise business has been a significant contributor to revenue and operating income growth within Disney’s Parks and Experiences division. Johnston emphasized the high level of guest satisfaction associated with Disney cruises and highlighted the upcoming additions to
Cruise
The keys on the piano danced to the tune of magic in the hidden venue of Spellbound on the Sun Princess cruise ship. During a recent visit, I was transported to an extraordinary world filled with surprises and enchantment. The ambiance of Spellbound is set behind an unassuming black door, leading guests into a realm
Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, the former president and CEO of Celebrity Cruises, has made a significant career move by leaving Royal Caribbean Group to take on the role of leading the FIFA World Cup 2026 Miami Host Committee. This transition marks a notable shift from the cruise industry to the sports industry, as she steps into a
Disney Cruise Line’s private destination, Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point in the Bahamas, is set to open in June with an exciting new theme – Junkanoo. This Bahamian national festival, known for its brilliant colors, unique costumes, and vibrant sounds like cowbells and drums, will be the focal point of the destination’s experience. According to
Virgin Voyages recently announced the introduction of their fourth ship, the Brilliant Lady, which is set to debut in New York City in September 2025. This marks an exciting development for the cruise line, as the Brilliant Lady promises to offer a unique experience unlike anything Virgin Voyages has offered before. Following its debut in
Princess Cruises recently announced revisions to its world cruise itineraries for the Island Princess and the Crown Princess in response to the ongoing conflict in the Red Sea. The original plans for these cruises, scheduled for 2025, included visits to the Middle East and Asia. However, due to safety concerns caused by attacks from Yemen’s
The recent introduction of the Carnival Firenze has solidified Carnival Cruise Line’s leading position in California’s cruise industry. This 5,000-guest ship is now sailing year-round from Long Beach, alongside Carnival Panorama and Carnival Radiance. With over 750,000 guests expected to embark from Long Beach next year, Carnival has seen a significant increase in its operations
Explora Journeys, the luxury cruise brand under MSC Group, is celebrating the one-year anniversary of its first ship, the Explora I. With the upcoming launch of its sister ship, the Explora II, the brand aims to provide an ultraluxury lifestyle ocean experience for discerning travelers. The newly appointed president of North America, Chris Austin, describes
Hard Rock International has recently announced a partnership with Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises, which will offer exclusive benefits to members of their loyalty programs. Unity by Hard Rock loyalty members will now receive discounts on Royal Caribbean and Celebrity sailings, as well as the opportunity to qualify for invitation-only cruise giveaways. On the
After a long pause of nearly four years, Royal Caribbean International has announced that it will resume cruises for the Chinese market this weekend. This marks a significant step for Royal Caribbean as they plan to add a second ship to the Chinese market in 2025. The decision to deploy to China again comes after
Venice has recently implemented a trial run of a tax on tourists who visit the city for only one day. This entry tax, which debuted on April 25 and will last until July 14, aims to address the issue of overtourism and discourage short day trips on peak days. Day-trippers to Venice will be required
The recent IPO registration form filed by Viking with the SEC has shed light on the company’s extensive narrative about its plans in the cruise industry. One particular passage in the 179-page document emphasized the significance of direct bookings in reducing commissions paid to travel agents, thereby enhancing margins. With a marketing database of over
Princess Cruises has taken luxury cruising to a whole new level with the introduction of the Sanctuary Collection on the Sun Princess and the upcoming Star Princess. This ship-within-a-ship suite category offers guests exclusive access to top-deck retreat areas, private dining and relaxation spaces, and a truly luxurious stateroom experience. The Sanctuary Collection will debut
In an industry as vast and complex as the world of cruise travel, the importance of shore excursions cannot be overstated. These off-ship adventures give passengers a chance to explore new destinations, experience local cultures, and create lasting memories. However, recent incidents have highlighted the potential risks associated with independent tour operators failing to return
The Seven Seas Grandeur set sail for Regent Seven Seas Cruises as the newest addition to the fleet, boasting the Culinary Arts Kitchen, a hallmark feature of the Explorer class. Unlike the previous ships, the Grandeur offers an 18-station version of the Culinary Arts Kitchen, providing guests with an immersive culinary experience. During a two-night
The Star Princess, the highly anticipated 4,300-passenger cruise ship, has experienced a setback in its inaugural season. Princess Cruises, in conjunction with shipbuilder Fincantieri, has decided to delay the delivery of the vessel. As a result, nine cruises have been canceled much to the disappointment of passengers who were eagerly awaiting their voyages. John Padgett,
As the annual Seatrade Cruise Global conference concluded in Miami, heads of luxury cruise lines shared their optimism about the industry’s business outlook. However, the looming U.S. presidential election has raised concerns within the industry. Historically, the travel sector experiences slowdowns during election periods as political campaigns dominate media attention and advertising space, diverting focus
Princess Cruises is set to revolutionize the dining experience for guests starting this September. The cruise line will now offer guests the flexibility to dine at any time they choose in the main dining rooms. This new option is in addition to the traditional dining experience where guests can select either early or late dinner