A recent outbreak of Norovirus on Princess Cruises’ Coral Princess affected dozens of passengers and crew during a month-long journey from Singapore to Los Angeles. The CDC confirmed the outbreak, with 55 passengers and 15 crew members reporting symptoms. Princess Cruises implemented increased cleaning and disinfection procedures to control the spread.
HX, formerly known as Hurtigruten Expeditions, has partnered with the University of Tasmania to offer a training program for Antarctic cruise passengers. This program allows guests to learn about Antarctic science from leading researchers. Participants can access the online course from anywhere in the world and receive a certificate upon completion.
The Philippines Coast Guard successfully evacuated passengers from the interisland ferry Maria Oliva after it ran aground in the Romblon region. The vessel, carrying 156 passengers, 38 crew members, and 26 trucks, was safely taken to shore. The Coast Guard is investigating the cause of the grounding and monitoring the vessel’s movement.
Stena Line is revolutionizing their menu by incorporating yellow pea mince into their meatballs, reducing meat consumption by 35 tons annually. Despite the change, the 50/50 meatballs will retain their delicious flavor. This sustainable approach aligns with the company’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and promoting environmental responsibility.
The Explorer of the Seas, a Royal Caribbean International cruise ship, faced a terrifying ordeal in near hurricane-force winds. Passengers slid around as the ship rolled dramatically, with injuries reported. Captain Frank’s quick response led the ship back to Las Palmas for medical assistance. Despite weather monitoring, unforeseen challenges can arise at sea.
Port Everglades achieved a new cruise passenger record in FY2024, welcoming 4,010,919 guests – a 39% increase from the previous year. This growth was fueled by a 23% rise in cruise ship calls, showcasing the port’s recovery post-pandemic. Port Everglades continues to solidify its position as a top cruise destination.
The crew of the Mein Schiff fleet has a unique opportunity to showcase their artistic talents by designing sculptures for the InTUItion 2 Pool Deck on the upcoming ship Mein Schiff Flow. This initiative allows crew members to make a significant contribution and leave a lasting impact on the ship’s visual appeal.
Red Sea Global has secured a $1.5 billion financial deal for the development of a multi-utility infrastructure project at the AMAALA destination in Saudi Arabia. The project, led by a consortium including EDF Group, Masdar, EWP, and SUEZ, aims to establish AMAALA with a focus on luxury, sustainability, and cultural enrichment.
Royal Caribbean has raised its annual profit forecast for the fourth time this year due to strong demand and higher prices for its private destinations, European, and Alaskan vacations. Analysts expect a healthy 20% profit growth in 2025, reflecting the company’s evolution into a more consistent, higher-return business.
Major cruise operators are investing heavily in their own private destinations, such as Royal Caribbean’s “Perfect Day at CocoCay” in The Bahamas. This strategy has proven to be lucrative, with increased revenues and reduced costs. Competitors are following suit, driving a trend towards private destinations and impacting public Caribbean destinations.
The new cruise ship, Mein Schiff Relax, completed its sea trials in Italy, showcasing its dual-fuel LNG propulsion system and impressive maneuverability. With innovative design elements and a focus on relaxation, the ship offers passengers a range of amenities. Mein Schiff Relax will Operate in a joint venture with Royal Caribbean Group.
Starting in 2025, ferry passengers can expect a significant rise in ticket prices due to a 7% increase in seafarers’ wages over the next two years. The Panhellenic Seamen’s Federation reached an agreement after a three-day strike, leading to the suspension of the strike. Fuel surcharges will also contribute to the fare increase.
Viking has ordered two more cruise ships from Fincantieri, bringing the total to 10. The collaboration began in 2012, resulting in the launch of Viking Star in 2015. The new ships will be larger, accommodating 998 passengers. Fincantieri has a busy schedule with orders from various cruise lines, indicating a resurgence in the industry.
The FCCA reported record economic contributions from the 2023-2024 cruise year, with $4.27 billion in direct expenditures across 33 destinations. This marked a 27% increase from 2018, supporting 94,027 jobs and 29.4 million onshore visits. Cruise lines spent $968.3 million, with an average of $29.3 million per destination.
The Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) investigated the loss of propulsion control and collision by the Oceandiva London during trials on the River Thames. The vessel, an inland waterways passenger ship, sustained damage but no injuries. The crew lacked experience to challenge the surveyor’s plan, leading to the incident.
