A passenger on the MSC Virtuosa cruise ship was arrested for murder after a 60-year-old man died during an altercation shortly after departure from Southampton. The incident occurred at around 8:30 PM, prompting a murder investigation. Authorities confirmed the cruise line is cooperating fully with the ongoing inquiry.
Holland America Line kicked off its 2025 season in Rotterdam with the arrival of the Nieuw Statendam, utilizing the port’s shore power system for the first time. VP Nico Bleichrodt praised the sustainability efforts and partnership with the port. The season will feature voyages to Europe, showcasing Dutch vendors and supporting local businesses.
More than 230 passengers and crew on a luxury cruise from England to the Eastern Caribbean were affected by a norovirus outbreak. The Queen Mary 2, Cunard’s flagship liner, isolated 224 passengers and 17 crew members with symptoms of diarrhea and vomiting. The C.D.C. is monitoring the situation and implementing sanitizing measures.
Mitsui Ocean Cruises has acquired a second luxury cruise ship from Carnival Corporation’s Seabourn Cruise Line, signaling its expansion in the domestic cruise market. The Seabourn Sojourn, with a gross tonnage of 32,477, was delivered to MOL on February 28 and will be chartered back to Seabourn until May 15, 2026.
Royal Caribbean has appointed Sailor as the chief dog officer (CDO) for the upcoming ship, Star of the Seas, following the success of Rover on Icon of the Seas. The new ship will offer waterparks, dining options, and a refreshed Empire Supper Club. Legend of the Seas will debut in 2026.
Passengers and crew aboard the Crown Princess faced chaos during a 14-day voyage when the ship listed to one side in strong winds. Tables overturned, people were thrown about, and items scattered. Despite minor injuries, Princess Cruises assured no structural damage and continued the voyage as planned, prioritizing safety and quick response.
The mayor of Nice, Christian Estrosi, initially opposed large cruise ships due to overtourism concerns. He now proposes daily limits on cruise ship port calls starting July 1. Critics argue Nice can only accommodate luxury ships, while the industry fears financial losses. A compromise plan allows smaller ships to visit, balancing health and economic interests.
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.
The Centre has identified six national waterways in Odisha suitable for cargo, passenger movement, and cruise tourism. Minister Sonowal confirmed their viability after consulting with the state government. NW-5, with a 30 million metric ton capacity, aims to connect industrial areas with ports. Plans for NW-14 and other waterways include infrastructure development for tourism and transportation.
The mayor of Nice, France, is pushing for a ban on large cruise ships in the bay between Nice and Villefranche due to concerns of overtourism and pollution. Christian Estrosi aims to limit ships with over 900 passengers or 190 meters in length, focusing on smaller, luxury vessels to preserve the city’s image.
Francesco Schettino, the captain of the ill-fated Costa Concordia cruise ship, is seeking early release from his 16-year prison sentence in Italy. The tragic incident in 2012 claimed 32 lives and led to significant changes in the cruise industry. Schettino’s petition for release has sparked mixed reactions and protests.
The Asuka III, the first Japanese-flagged cruise ship in 35 years, is a symbol of growth in the Japanese cruise market. With luxurious amenities and a focus on Japanese preferences, the ship will offer a unique experience for passengers. Its construction in Germany marks a new chapter for Japanese cruise operators like NYK and MOL.
Efforts to enhance port capabilities for shore power are underway in Italy, with Cavotec securing €7 million in orders for sustainable technologies. The company will supply systems for cruise ships, Ro-Ro vessels, and containerships in western and southern Italy. The growing trend of onshore power connection is expected to continue, with significant growth projected by 2028.
The port of Nassau in the Bahamas has broken its record for the highest number of passengers passing through its cruise port. With the introduction of a new cruise terminal, Nassau is capitalizing on the short-duration cruise market. The port’s ability to accommodate mega cruise ships has led to a surge in visitors.
A video showing a tense moment as a large yacht named Aurora collided with the docked cruise ship Allure of the Seas has been circulating on social media. Passengers onboard witnessed the luxury vessel approaching and making contact with the massive cruise ship in Nassau harbor, causing concern and visible damage.
