Alaska has long been a coveted destination for cruise enthusiasts, with its breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife drawing millions of tourists each year. However, the COVID-19 pandemic dramatically altered the cruising landscape, leading to a notable surge in demand as travel restrictions eased. Now, as 2023 unfolds, a significant shift is on the horizon for
Cruise
In an era defined by pandemic-induced uncertainty, Royal Caribbean International showcased a remarkable shift in its cruising strategy with the introduction of the Ultimate World Cruise aboard the Serenade of the Seas. This ambitious undertaking essentially redefined what consumers can expect from modern cruise vacations, pushing boundaries in both duration and experience. A 274-day world
The cruise industry has showcased remarkable resilience, particularly in the wake of economic uncertainties that have affected various sectors. As major players in the industry have consistently raised their full-year guidance for earnings, this success stands in sharp contrast to the performance of the hotel sector, where growth has exhibited signs of deceleration. According to
In a bold move signaling a revitalization of cruise tourism, Carnival Cruise Line has announced that the Carnival Luminosa will be stationed in San Francisco starting in the summer of 2026. This strategic decision comes as the cruise industry continues to rebound from previous disruptions and aims to capitalize on the growing demand for Alaskan
Azamara Cruises has recently launched a new training and incentive program for travel advisors. In this program, advisors who successfully complete the Azamara World Academy training and earn an Azamara Cruises Expert certificate by October 31st will have the opportunity to earn bonus commissions on 2025 bookings. The bonus commission amounts to $200 for new
Valarie D’Elia, a revered figure in the realm of travel journalism, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 64 following a courageous fight against ALS. Her career spanned nearly two decades at NY1, where she became a beloved personality through her “Travel with Val” segments, which aired from 1998 until 2017. D’Elia’s distinctive style
Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, the former CEO of Celebrity Cruises, has recently been appointed as the chairwoman of Hornblower Group, a provider of ferry services and day tours. Her main task will be to lead the strategic direction of the company. This appointment comes shortly after Hornblower emerged from bankruptcy and underwent a financial restructuring under new
Embarking on the Viking Yi Dun for a 10-day journey from Shanghai to Hong Kong, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation. This voyage marked a new chapter for Viking Cruises as they entered the oceangoing China cruise market for Western travelers. The 930-passenger ship, formerly known as the Viking Sun,
Royal Caribbean International’s first world cruise, the Ultimate World Cruise, became a global sensation in late 2021, attracting a significant amount of attention on social media platforms. Jenny Hunnicutt and her husband, intrigued by the idea of a 274-day adventure circumnavigating the world, quickly booked a cabin for $54,000 per person. The journey, expected to
When it comes to small-ship cruising, Oceania Cruises stands out as a pioneer in the culinary world, often claiming to offer the “finest cuisine at sea.” This assertion is quite bold, given the numerous luxury cruise competitors on the rise. However, Oceania Cruises distinguishes itself by providing top-notch culinary experiences without the additional charges commonly
Signature Travel Network is set to become the exclusive platform for the Indigenous Tourism Education Modules, a collaborative effort between the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada and Destination Canada. This initiative aims to provide a unique resource for Indigenous tourism in Canada, offering travel advisors the opportunity to delve deeper into Indigenous communities and experiences.
Located at the southern tip of Alaska’s Inside Passage, the city of Ketchikan has a rich history that dates back to its origins as a Tlingit fishing camp. Booming with the Gold Rush, timber, and fishing industries, Ketchikan is now a charming port that attracts visitors from all over the world. Choosing the perfect excursion
Sitka, Alaska has a long history of cruise tourism dating back to 1882. Over the years, it has become a significant part of the local economy. However, the influx of cruise ships has also sparked controversy and debate among residents. The documentary “Cruise Boom” sheds light on the challenges and opportunities that come with the
Alaska’s cruise industry has been booming, with record-breaking cruise seasons and increasing demand from travelers. However, this rapid growth has not come without its challenges, particularly in Juneau. As the city’s popularity as a cruise destination has surged, local officials and residents have found themselves struggling to keep up with the influx of visitors. To
Port Tampa Bay, known for its contemporary cruise ships, is gearing up to welcome a new addition in 2026. The premium line Oceania Cruises will be making its debut at the port, a move that is set to change the landscape of cruising in that area. Oceania’s Insignia, a 670-guest ship, will be the star
When it comes to travel destinations, the Marquesas Islands stand out as a rare gem untouched by overtourism. While some cruise lines like Paul Gauguin Cruises and Windstar Cruises occasionally visit these islands, the Aranui 5 remains the primary ship that explores all six inhabited islands. The limited number of visitors allows for a more
Royal Caribbean Group has once again demonstrated its commitment to expansion with the recent order of a fourth Icon-class ship from Finnish shipbuilder Meyer Turku. The deal paves the way for potential options for a fifth and sixth ship, solidifying the company’s future plans for growth in the cruise industry. The Icon-class ships are setting
Africa, known for its classic safari vacations, is now experiencing a surge in cruise tourism. The demand for cruising in Africa has nearly doubled from the previous year, indicating a significant boom in this sector. Countries across the continent are recognizing the economic potential of cruising and are making strategic investments in infrastructure and policies