Fremantle Ports is leading Australia’s initiative to sustainably manage ship-generated waste by trialing recycling methods for materials from cruise ships. Historically, stringent biosecurity regulations have complicated recycling efforts, often resulting in valuable materials being sent to landfills. Fremantle’s advocacy aims to set a precedent for improved practices nationwide.
A recent norovirus outbreak aboard Holland America Line’s Rotterdam cruise ship affected nearly 90 individuals, including both passengers and crew. Symptoms primarily included gastrointestinal issues like vomiting and diarrhea. The cruise line notified the CDC, which confirmed the outbreak, prompting enhanced cleaning and isolation measures to contain the situation.
The luxury river cruise ship Nicko Vision became stranded on the Danube with nearly 200 passengers as they prepared for New Year’s Eve. Low water levels, about 9 inches below normal, hindered rescue efforts. Passengers initially traveled by bus to Budapest but later rejoined the cruise, continuing toward Bratislava.
The cruise ship Coral Adventurer has been detained in Papua New Guinea after running aground near Dreghafen Point. Despite listing slightly, no damage or pollution has been reported, and all 124 personnel are safe. The Australian Maritime Safety Authority has raised concerns about the vessel’s seaworthiness and compliance with safety regulations.
The Australian-flagged cruise ship Coral Adventurer ran aground near Dregerhafen Point, Papua New Guinea, early Saturday. Carrying 123 individuals, it grounded without reported injuries. The Australian Maritime Safety Authority detained the ship due to safety concerns, while the Australian Transport Safety Bureau launched an investigation into the incident.
The expedition cruise ship Coral Adventurer ran aground off Papua New Guinea during its inaugural voyage after a recent passenger death. All 80 passengers and 43 crew members are safe, with no reports of flooding or pollution. A response officer has boarded to assist, as investigations continue into the earlier incident.
On December 27, 2025, a tragic fire erupted in the engine room of the tourist ship ‘Atlantic Cruise’ while docking at Nuniachhara jetty. Crew member Nur Kamal, 35, sadly lost his life during the incident. Fortunately, around 200 tourists escaped unharmed, thanks to the quick response of local authorities.
Trade unions in Greece are protesting the docking of the cruise ship Crown Iris, linked to the Israeli Defense Forces. The World Federation of Trade Unions demands that Greek authorities revoke approval for repairs at the Public Power Corporation pier, citing ongoing tensions in Gaza and urging support for local commercial vessels instead.
Connectivity at sea has shifted from luxury to necessity, particularly in the cruise industry. A recent incident on the Carnival Firenze demonstrated this when a system crash caused a communications failure, delaying departure. Passengers experienced disruptions in Wi-Fi and services, underscoring the critical need for reliable onboard connectivity.
Fincantieri’s Marghera shipyard has successfully floated out the Seven Seas Prestige, an ultra-luxury cruise ship for Regent Seven Seas Cruises. This new vessel, weighing 76,550 gross tons and measuring 257 meters, will accommodate 822 passengers with a crew of 630, ensuring an exceptional service experience. The ship features the largest suite ever on a cruise ship.
Fincantieri has secured a contract to build an ultra-luxury cruise ship for Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, set for delivery in 2033. This vessel will be a sister ship to the Seven Seas Prestige, currently under construction. The agreement, valued between $550 million and $1.15 billion, emphasizes Fincantieri’s commitment to innovation.
An 80-year-old Australian woman was found deceased on Lizard Island after being inadvertently left behind by the Coral Adventurer cruise ship. She had separated from her hiking group to rest but did not return in time. The incident is under investigation by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority.
Australian authorities are investigating the tragic death of an 80-year-old woman left behind on Lizard Island. She separated from her hiking group during a cruise excursion and was reported missing after the ship departed. A search operation led to her body being found the next morning. The investigation is ongoing.
On October 22, the Norwegian Epic rescued 63 individuals lost in the Ionian Sea, off Greece’s coast. Collaborating with Greek authorities, the ship provided medical care, food, and comfort items. After the rescue, the ship continued its itinerary, showcasing cruise lines’ commitment to assisting those in distress at sea.
A collaboration between GTT, Bloom Energy, and Ponant Explorations Group aims to develop the first net-zero cruise ship, integrating fuel cells with marine carbon capture technology. The project seeks to create an energy-efficient vessel that meets onboard consumption needs while significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions, with plans for operation by 2030.
