Mike Flaskey, the freshly appointed CEO of Hornblower Group, finds himself in the eye of the storm just weeks into his new role. The company is navigating the treacherous waters of post-bankruptcy recovery after its dramatic emergence from Chapter 11 last July. This transition period was compounded by the previous shutdown of American Queen Voyages.
Cruise
The world of luxury travel continues to evolve, and few experiences capture this intersection of opulence and adventure as dramatically as the Four Seasons Explorer. This remarkable catamaran has been providing unparalleled live-aboard experiences for over two decades. Originally serving the pristine waters of the Maldives, this floating gem is now gracing the stunning landscapes
In a groundbreaking move for the cruise industry, Viking has set sail on a new chapter by launching ocean cruises specifically designed for English-speaking travelers in China. After a lengthy hiatus marked by the pandemic, Viking’s return with their ship Zhao Shang Yi Dun marks not just a resumption of services but also an experiment
Croatia, with its stunning Adriatic coast and rich cultural heritage, has become a travel hotspot over the past decade. Following my recent voyage through its azure waters, I found myself reflecting on the evolution of this enchanting destination. A friend recently inquired whether Croatia is “still worth visiting,” given the increased foot traffic in its
Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours is set to elevate the cruising experience with the announcement of renowned chef Bryan Voltaggio returning to host a culinary-themed voyage. This event is part of their prestigious “Tastes of Discovery” series and is destined to be a haven for food enthusiasts and travelers alike. Scheduled to depart on July
After nearly six impactful years as the president and CEO of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), Kelly Craighead is stepping down at the close of this year. Her tenure has been marked by extraordinary challenges and accomplishments, reflecting her unwavering dedication to the cruise industry—a sector that has faced unprecedented turmoil, especially during the
Cruise tourism in Alaska presents a complex landscape, marked by a growing divide between communities that welcome the industry and those advocating for its reduction. While some localities are eagerly enhancing their port facilities and beckoning for more cruise traffic, others stare warily at the potential overreach of the cruise industry, emphasizing community sentiments and
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is undeniably setting the bar higher in the cruise industry with its upcoming second ship in the Prima Plus class, aptly named the Norwegian Luna. Scheduled to embark on its inaugural voyage from Miami in April 2026, the Luna promises an exceptional onboard experience, catering to a growing demographic of cruise
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
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