American Cruise Lines recently christened their newest small ship, American Legend, in Key West, Florida. The ceremony took place at Mallory Square during one of their popular 8-Day Florida Gulf Coast & Keys cruises. The event included speeches, plaque exchanges, and a traditional bottle smash with the ship’s Godmother, Mayor of Key West.
Since its 2015 launch, the all-electric ferry MF Ampere has journeyed 17 times around the equator on battery power, showcasing electric technology’s potential. Reducing CO2 emissions by 5,700 tons annually and cutting operational costs by up to 90%, it has inspired global initiatives for sustainable maritime transport and electrification.
In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, Jayaram Bhogi’s research on edge computing in maritime connectivity is revolutionizing cruise ship operations. By integrating agile methodologies and advanced technologies, Bhogi addresses challenges like high latency and bandwidth limitations to enhance passenger experiences and operational efficiency. His work sets a new standard for digital transformation in the maritime industry.
Austal Australasia, a subsidiary of Austal Limited, has secured a contract worth A$265 to A$275 million from Gotlandsbolaget of Sweden for a 130-meter hydrogen-ready vehicle passenger ferry. This high-speed ROPAX catamaran will feature a unique propulsion system with gas and steam turbines, aiming to redefine commercial ferry capabilities with a focus on sustainability and efficiency.
Cruise expert Lucy Southerton, with almost a decade of experience working on cruise ships, cautions passengers against removing gratuities from their bills. She stresses that gratuities are crucial for crew members’ wages, not just extra earnings. Fellow expert Gary Bembridge suggests budgeting for basic gratuities and tipping exceptional crew members in cash for a more rewarding experience.
Nearly 120 individuals aboard Holland America’s ms Rotterdam have reported norovirus symptoms during a 12-night Panama Canal cruise. With 107 passengers and 12 crew members affected, enhanced cleaning protocols have been implemented. This outbreak is one of seven tracked by the CDC in 2025, highlighting ongoing public health concerns in cruising.
Japan’s NYK Line is partnering with Oriental Land Co. to launch a Disney-themed cruise ship tailored for the Japanese market. With an investment of up to $2.2 billion, the new ship will be the fourth member of the Disney Wish class. This collaboration aims to provide immersive family entertainment experiences, expanding NYK’s cruise operations.
Marine Charging Point (MCP) is transforming travel with cutting-edge ferries like M/S Tycho Brahe and M/S Aurora, equipped with 160 kW charging stations for EVs. These ferries offer sustainable solutions with 4 MWh batteries and renewable energy sources. The market trend shows increased investments in marine EV charging, promising a greener future in maritime transport.
Nearly 100 individuals on board the Radiance of the Seas cruise ship fell ill with symptoms of vomiting and diarrhea. The CDC reported that the cause of the outbreak remains unknown. Royal Caribbean Group took immediate action by isolating sick guests and crew members, implementing enhanced cleaning measures.
Fincantieri and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings have signed a multi-billion dollar agreement to build four new cruise ships, the largest ever for NCL. With a focus on sustainability, these ships will accommodate over 8,300 people and are set for delivery between 2030 and 2036. This partnership signifies a major milestone in the maritime industry.
Lloyd’s Register (LR) has introduced a new class notation for fin stabilizers on cruise ships, ensuring a smooth voyage for passengers. The notation covers aspects like strength, machinery, and integration into the hull. While not assessing performance, it guarantees functionality and reliability. Fin stabilizers are vital for enhancing passenger experiences by reducing ship roll.
German shipyard Meyer Werft, along with partners Freudenberg e-Power Systems and the German Aerospace Center, has initiated the zero4cruise project to develop eco-friendly energy systems for cruise ships. The focus is on fuel cell technology using green methanol to achieve carbon-neutral operations in ports. Retrofitting existing ships with these systems is a key strategy for decarbonizing.
Royal Caribbean is poised for a successful year in 2025, with a projected 23% increase in earnings. Share prices surged by 12% on the news, exceeding analysts’ estimates. The company’s record-breaking start to the “WAVE” season is attributed to new ship investments. CEO Jason Liberty announced plans for Celebrity River Cruises, impacting industry rival Viking Holdings.
Mario Salcedo, known as ‘Super Mario’ in cruise circles, has spent the last 25 years living on cruise ships. Recently, he celebrated his 1,000th voyage with Royal Caribbean, showcasing an unparalleled level of customer loyalty. Salcedo revealed that he spends approximately $101,000/£81,000 annually on cruises, opting for a cabin with a balcony.
Fincantieri and Marc-Henry Cruise Holdings LTD celebrated the launch of “Four Seasons I” at the Ancona shipyard, marking a significant milestone in luxury cruising. With its residential-style design and exclusive suites, the ship promises to redefine opulence at sea. The vessel’s innovative design and focus on sustainability set a new standard for luxury cruising.
