The Dutch advertising board ruled against MSC Cruises for greenwashing, finding their sustainability claims misleading. Despite MSC’s goal of “net zero by 2050,” the board criticized their promotion of LNG as a cleaner fuel. Environmental groups filed the complaint, emphasizing the importance of transparency in companies’ environmental efforts.
Carnival Corp has exceeded market expectations for third-quarter results, raising its annual profit forecast for the third time. The surge in demand for cruise vacations and reduced operational costs contributed to the company’s strong performance. Despite a slight decline in fourth-quarter earnings per share target, Carnival remains optimistic about its financial outlook for the year.
Villa Vie Residence’s “endless world cruise” aboard the Odyssey is finally setting sail after a lengthy refit in Belfast. With 125 residents on board and space for up to 650, the ship offers 15 years of accommodation and a unique living experience. Despite challenges, the company is optimistic about the journey ahead.
The second LNG cruise ship, Star Princess, was launched at Fincantieri’s Monfalcone shipyard in Italy. Attended by dignitaries and godmothers, the 178,000-ton vessel is the sister ship to Sun Princess. Scheduled for fall 2025 delivery, it will accommodate 4,300 passengers on a next-generation platform. The partnership highlights innovative design and eco-friendly technology.
Virgin Voyages and Ideagen have partnered to revolutionize medical management in the cruise industry. By utilizing Ideagen Tritan software, they aim to improve service levels, reduce costs, and meet specific needs while adhering to regulations. This collaboration will enhance care navigation strategies and establish cruising as a trusted healthcare destination.
The residential cruise ship Villa Vie Odyssey, after undergoing maintenance and inspection at Harland & Wolff for four months, has completed sea trials and is preparing to depart Belfast. Despite delays and challenges, the vessel is now ready to offer a unique living experience at sea for leaseholders, with departure expected soon.
A group of environmentalists in Marseille, France, formed a human chain using small boats to block the port, drawing attention to the environmental impact of cruise ships and their connection to global warming. The demonstration, led by the group Stop Croisières and Extinction Rebellion, involved approximately 20 individuals who used canoes to block the entrance.
A yacht explosion in Marina del Rey, California, caused chaos as The Admiral luxury yacht caught fire and sank, creating a 4,000-gallon diesel spill. Thankfully, no serious injuries occurred, but the incident serves as a reminder of the tragic MV Conception disaster. The Coast Guard responded swiftly, emphasizing the need for better oversight and prevention measures to avoid similar incidents.
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has unveiled details about its upcoming ship, Norwegian Luna, joining the fleet in spring 2026. The ship, part of the Prima Plus class, will be the fifth largest in NCL’s fleet, accommodating 3,550 guests. With exciting features like the Aqua Slidecoaster and Glow Court, the ship promises unique experiences for guests sailing to Caribbean destinations.
The Disney Treasure, Disney Cruise Line’s latest ship, completed its journey from a shipyard in Germany to its berth in the Netherlands. The 16-hour conveyance along the Ems River was guided by tugs due to the ship’s massive size. After sea trials, the ship will sail to Port Canaveral, Florida, offering a magical cruise experience for guests.
The Maritime Union is deeply worried about the safety of workers and passengers on Cook Strait ferries after a series of incidents, including the Bluebridge ferry Connemara losing power. National secretary Carl Findlay highlighted the dangers and escalating issues with the ageing fleet. The cancellation of the iRex project has left ferry services uncertain.
In 2008, Chris Willson discovered a Craigslist ad for a rundown cruise ship and embarked on a 15-year journey to restore it. Despite facing challenges, Willson renamed the ship Aurora and dedicated himself to its revival. However, tragedy struck in 2023 when Aurora began to sink, leading to its uncertain fate and highlighting the fragility of maritime heritage.[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1XqqzTGcl4[/embed]
The UK celebrated a major achievement with the first bunkering of an LNG dual-fuel vessel from a Scottish shipyard. Despite delays, the construction of two new Ro-Ro ferries for CalMac is close to completion. Glen Sannox’s cool-down process began in Glasgow, marking a crucial step towards its delivery, although facing challenges and political scrutiny.
Japanese authorities have arrested the head of a tour boat company after the tragic loss of the Kazu I, which disappeared off the coast of Hokkaido in 2022. The vessel encountered rough conditions, issued a distress call, and tragically no survivors were found. Investigations revealed safety protocol violations, leading to criminal charges for negligence resulting in death.
The Spanish island of Ibiza is taking steps to control tourism, including cruise ship passengers, due to concerns about overcrowding and transportation issues. The Council of Mayors plans to limit the simultaneous arrival of passenger ships to two and review the cruise ship schedule to ensure more controlled and planned arrivals. Residents are also addressing housing shortages by blocking illegal tourist accommodations.
