Explora Journeys’ newest ship, Explora II, has successfully completed sea trials, showcasing its luxury and environmentally friendly features. With Western Mediterranean itineraries starting this summer, guests can enjoy elegant accommodations, top-notch amenities, and picturesque destinations while minimizing their impact on the environment. This vessel sets a new standard for luxury ocean travel with a focus on sustainability.
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis plans to restrict cruise ship visits to Greece’s popular islands to combat overtourism post-pandemic. Greece saw a 18% increase in tourist visits in 2023, generating 847.4 million euros from cruises alone. Mitsotakis aims to balance economic benefits with environmental impact, particularly focusing on Santorini’s strain due to cruise traffic.
An unidentified crew member is missing after jumping from an MSC cruise ship. The search lasted three hours with support from the local Coast Guard. The crew member’s name and gender were not disclosed for privacy. The cruise line launched a search and rescue operation with local authorities. This incident marks the 10th man overboard in 2024 for the cruise line.
Discover the thrill of adventure sports with cruise packages highlighting water sports, scuba diving, trekking, and white water rafting in Andhra Pradesh. The Visakhapatnam Port Authority is transforming the state into a premier cruise destination, supporting ex-crew members to start businesses catering to the needs of the industry and boosting the local economy.
Superyachts, the ultimate status symbol for the super-rich, are also a major source of greenhouse gas emissions. Lifestyle social scientist Gregory Salle describes them as “ecocide” in his book, highlighting their impact on the environment. With increasing numbers and emissions, the luxury yacht industry faces scrutiny for its contribution to climate change.
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has partnered with Star International for safety maintenance on its three-ship fleet. The five-year contract will cover annual inspections and repairs of firefighting and rescue equipment on Bolette, Borealis, and Balmoral. Star’s Managing Director, Matthew Ball, emphasized the importance of regular maintenance in protecting passengers and crew at sea.
On June 6, 2024, Red Bull Mobile partnered with Telenor Maritime to offer affordable data plans to passengers on 150+ cruise ships and ferries worldwide. The eSIM application allows users to purchase fixed-price maritime packages for internet access while at sea. Travellers can buy the package before boarding and start using it in international waters, enhancing connectivity at sea.
Stena Line introduces AI system, Voyage Optimisation System, to enhance vessel operations at sea. By analyzing real-time factors like wind and waves, the AI reduces fuel consumption and ensures energy efficiency. The collaboration between developers and crew improves AI solutions, integrating technology as an assistant to human decision-making. Stena Line’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond maritime transportation, setting a standard for innovation in the industry.
Carnival Cruise Line has partnered with the Mexican Maritime and Port University to launch a Cadet Apprenticeship Program, providing aspiring maritime professionals with hands-on training in the cruise industry. This collaboration demonstrates a commitment to nurturing future talent and fostering growth in the maritime sector. The program offers a comprehensive learning experience, combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills to prepare cadets for successful careers.
A significant milestone has been reached in Saudi Arabia’s coastal tourism sector with the introduction of licensing regulations. Maritime tourism agents are now required to ensure safe and sustainable navigational tourism activities at sea. Cruise Saudi recently received the first maritime tourism agent license, marking a crucial step towards promoting safe and sustainable maritime tourism in the Kingdom’s coastal waters.
An unidentified guest went overboard while cruising on Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas, the world’s largest cruise ship. The incident occurred on a 7-night sailing from Miami to Roatan, Honduras. The man was successfully rescued, but details surrounding the incident and the guest’s identity remain unclear.
The largest conversion project of conventional RoRo ferries into plug-in hybrid ferries is set to begin in the second half of 2025. Scandlines in Denmark, partnering with Wärtsilä, will convert two 27-year-old vessels to hybrid operations, enabling them to conduct 80 percent of their voyages by battery power.
SSA Marine has launched a new cruise division, appointing industry veteran Stefano Borzone as president. The division aims to enhance partnerships with cruise lines, focusing on innovation and sustainability. Borzone brings extensive experience from Carnival Corporation and Metro Cruise Services. CEO Uffe Ostergaard is excited for the division’s growth under Borzone’s leadership.
The second luxury superyacht for the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, named Ilma, completed sea trials off the coast of France. Designed by Aivan, the ship features a sleek exterior inspired by private yacht design. With larger size and traditional layout, Ilma will accommodate 448 passengers in 224 suites, offering ultra-luxury amenities.
A luxury cruise ship in the Mediterranean Sea was at the center of a criminal investigation after a baby’s body was found in a crew cabin. A 28-year-old Filipina crew member was arrested for voluntary manslaughter after neglecting her newborn. The incident has raised concerns about the challenges faced by cruise ship employees.
