Fincantieri has unveiled the Viking Libra, the world’s first hydrogen-powered cruise ship, at its Ancona shipyard. Set for delivery in late 2026, the 54,300-ton vessel will accommodate 998 passengers. Its hybrid propulsion system promises zero-emission operations, aligning with the industry’s shift towards sustainable practices amid stricter regulations.
On December 27, 2025, the cruise ship Coral Adventurer ran aground near Dregerhafen, Papua New Guinea, due to a malfunction in its ECDIS. The chief mate’s modified route plan failed to load, causing delays and ultimately leading the vessel into hazardous waters. Despite attempts to regain control, the ship struck shallow ground.
A crew member tragically lost their life in a fire aboard the World Legacy cruise ship en route to Singapore on February 20. The Maritime and Port Authority reported that of the 224 passengers, 185 were Singaporeans. Fortunately, no injuries were reported among other crew members or passengers.
On February 10, 2026, a harbour pilot fell into the sea while boarding the Emerald Princess cruise ship near Kauai. Quickly rescued by the pilot boat crew, he appeared unharmed. The incident led to the cancellation of the ship’s visit to Nawiliwili Harbour due to hazardous sea conditions.
Meyer Turku has unveiled the AVATAR, a pioneering net-zero cruise ship concept that achieves over 90% reduction in lifecycle carbon emissions compared to the IMO baseline. Part of the NEcOLEAP initiative, AVATAR emphasizes energy efficiency with features like streamlined structures and bio-methanol fuel, showcasing advanced technologies for sustainable cruising.
Fincantieri and Oceania Cruises recently celebrated the keel laying of the Oceania Sonata at Marghera shipyard. This inaugural vessel of the Sonata class, set for delivery in 2027, will accommodate 1,390 guests and emphasize luxury travel. The program includes three additional ships, enhancing Oceania’s premium offerings.
The Panama Canal celebrated a historic milestone with the inaugural transit of the Disney Adventure, the largest cruise ship to navigate its waters. Weighing 208,000 gross tons and accommodating 6,700 passengers, this transit marks a significant achievement in maritime history, showcasing advancements in cruise ship design and canal capacity.
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.
