As we inch closer to Black Friday, a trend is emerging that savvy travelers shouldn’t overlook: the early rollout of significant travel deals, particularly in the cruise sector. With savings hovering between 25% and 60%, these promotions present an intriguing opportunity for those looking to experience the high seas without breaking the bank. The cruise
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In the dynamic world of the cruise industry, fostering strong connections is paramount for travel advisors seeking to elevate their business. This notion was emphasized during the recent CruiseWorld conference, where seasoned executives highlighted the vital role business development managers (BDMs) play in facilitating growth for advisors. As Eric Schmit, the director of business development
The dream of taking a vacation with our beloved dogs is one that has finally come to fruition, with the announcement of a pioneering cruise event designed solely for pet owners and their furry companions. In a groundbreaking move, Margaritaville at Sea Islander has joined forces with Cruise Tails and Expedia Cruises of West Orlando
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has recently made waves in the cruising industry by not only unveiling its itineraries for the fall and winter season of 2026-27 but also launching an enticing Black Friday sale. With a remarkable offer of 50% off on published fares, cruising enthusiasts have a golden opportunity to secure their dream vacations
Celestyal Cruises, celebrated for its immersive Greek itineraries and authentic onboard experience, is embarking on a significant transformation aimed at enhancing customer satisfaction and travel advisor engagement. Beginning December 11, 2023, travelers booking voyages starting March 21, 2024, will notice a streamlined fare structure as the cruise line consolidates its previous packages into a single,
In an era where customer experience dictates brand loyalty, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) has made a momentous stride in re-evaluating its operational philosophy by introducing the concept of ROEx, or return on experience. This term signals a pivot away from traditional financial metrics, such as return on investment (ROI), towards a more nuanced understanding
The COVID-19 pandemic dealt a severe blow to the travel industry, particularly the cruise sector, leading to a drastic decline in bookings handled by travel advisors. Frank A. Del Rio, the president of Oceania Cruises, recently highlighted the significant shift in business dynamics at CruiseWorld. He pointed out that while 70% of cruise bookings were
In a bold move poised to reshape the luxury cruise industry, Crystal Cruises has confirmed an order for a third ship, which is set to be built by renowned shipbuilder Fincantieri, with a scheduled delivery in 2032. This announcement marks a significant milestone following the company’s recent intentions to revamp its fleet. Originally, in June,
Margaritaville at Sea has embarked on an ambitious journey since its inception in 2022. Originally known for offering budget two-night cruises on the aging Paradise ship, the cruise line is now revitalized under new ownership. The transition marks an exciting shift that aims to solidify the brand’s presence in the competitive cruise industry. With upgraded
In recent years, the landscape of luxury travel has significantly evolved, particularly for the LGBTQ+ community. Travelers seeking more than just conventional cruise experiences have begun to discover fully inclusive LGBTQ+ cruises that cater specifically to their desires. This shift marks a pivotal change in the travel industry, recognizing the unique preferences and needs of
Celebrity Cruises is poised to embark on an exciting journey as it prepares for the upcoming launch of its fifth and final Edge-class ship, aptly named the Celebrity Xcel, set to debut next November. In a recent address to attendees at CruiseWorld, Laura Hodges Bethge, the company’s brand president, expressed a sense of anticipation and
Princess Cruises has found itself navigating turbulent waters with the recent cancellation of another sailing aboard the Regal Princess. Originally scheduled to depart from Galveston for a Western Caribbean route, this cancellation marks the third disruption in the ship’s schedule. The unfolding situation highlights significant operational challenges that have unfortunately become a recurring theme for
The cruise industry is a complex and competitive landscape, with numerous players vying for attention from a limited pool of travel advisors. At the recent CruiseWorld event, key sales executives from major cruise lines gathered to discuss strategies for strengthening their relationships with travel advisors. This article explores the insights shared during a panel discussion
Small-ship cruise lines have taken the spotlight in the travel industry, particularly for their distinctive ability to reach destinations unreachable by larger vessels. However, what often remains overlooked is the cruise ship itself. The charm and experience offered by these smaller vessels can be as captivating as the ports they visit. During a recent session
At the heart of the resurgence of the cruise industry lies an undeniable momentum fueled by ever-increasing consumer enthusiasm for travel. Recently, Carnival CEO Josh Weinstein took the stage at the CruiseWorld conference in Fort Lauderdale, where his words echoed the sentiments of an industry thriving against the backdrop of record-breaking bookings. As he unveiled
The cruising industry has reached unparalleled heights in its financial achievements, yet it finds itself at a critical crossroad marked by increasing environmental scrutiny. Jason Liberty, CEO of Royal Caribbean Group and chairman of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), emphasized this point at CruiseWorld. As governments, particularly in Europe, intensify their directives aimed at
In an ever-evolving travel landscape, industry leaders are urging travel advisors to embrace change and step beyond their familiar boundaries. Ken Muskat, the managing director of Scenic Group USA, made a compelling case for this transformation at the recent CruiseWorld conference. His lively presentation resonated with a crowd of approximately 200 travel advisors, encouraging them
Royal Caribbean’s latest flagship, the Icon of the Seas, represents a monumental leap in the cruise experience, garnering strong customer satisfaction and delivering impressive financial returns. Celebrated as a hallmark of innovation, this ship stands in a “beautiful sweet spot,” as aptly described by CEO Michael Bayley during his recent appearance at CruiseWorld. With premium