Cruise ship itinerary changes, maritime industry developments, mega-vessel launches, and port advisory updates for ocean travelers.
TUI UK's Marella Cruises introduces Patras, Greece, as a new port call for Summer 2028 alongside six new itineraries, 119 cruise-and-stay hotels, and 22 regional departure airports.
Crystal Serenity will undergo a major accommodation overhaul during its 2028 dry dock, adding a 1,722-sq-ft Owner's Suite and four Junior Penthouse Premium Suites.
The New Zealand Cruise Association advocates for 18 months' advance notice on port and operational fees to help global cruise lines budget deployment to New Zealand ports.
Virgin Voyages' Scarlet Lady briefly broke from its moorings in Rhodes, Greece, during high winds on September 30. Crew re-secured the vessel within minutes with no injuries reported.
Holland America Line marks 80 years in Alaska with six deployed ships, a new 8-day Vancouver Inside Passage route, 28-day Arctic voyages, and Denali Lodge renovations for 2027.
Seattle is projecting 2.1 million passengers for the 2026 Alaska season, while Juneau implements strict berth caps to combat overtourism, signaling a new era of managed growth in North American cruising.
Small European ports with populations under 15,000 are implementing aggressive passenger quotas and zero-emission mandates to survive the displacement of cruise traffic from major hubs like Venice and Barcelona.
Cape Town has cemented its status as Africa's premier maritime gateway, injecting R1.79 billion into the regional GDP through record-breaking cruise volumes and strategic port diversification.
Saga Cruise reports significant profit growth in 2026, driving the expansion of its luxury ocean and river cruise fleets, including the upcoming Spirit of the Lorelei.
VIVA Cruises launches its 2028 VIVA Boutique programme, featuring gourmet-focused river journeys through France and Italy aboard the Viva Beyond and Viva Unique.
A viral dispute over a $167 refund on a $1,600 Royal Caribbean booking highlights the steep financial risks of canceling cruises without comprehensive travel insurance in 2026.
Royal Caribbean is eliminating its 25% cancellation tier, doubling the financial penalty to 50% for passengers canceling within specific windows for North American departures.
