In Bar Harbor, Maine, a brewing debate over tourism management reflects the delicate balance between local lifestyle preservation and economic vitality. Residents will soon face a pivotal decision in November concerning a cap on cruise ship passengers, a policy they instituted through a referendum just two years prior. Initially, this cap limits daily cruise visitors
Cruise
Cruising remains one of the most popular vacation choices for travelers seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure on the high seas. However, the experience doesn’t have to start or end with the departure or arrival of a ship. Prominent figures in tourism are increasingly emphasizing the importance of pre- and post-cruise stays, aiming to
Gino Perez, a dedicated fisherman from Chile, lived his entire life captivated by the legends of the Titania, a supply ship that vanished into the depths of the ocean during World War I. For over a century, the ship’s precise location remained a mystery, particularly intriguing for Perez, who spent countless hours fishing near Alejandro
In the ever-evolving world of luxury cruising, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has embarked on a bold new venture with the introduction of the Norwegian Aqua. Slated for its grand debut in March, this Prima Plus-class ship not only showcases a different aesthetic from its predecessors, the Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva, but also represents a
Avoya Travel has made a significant leap in the travel industry with the introduction of its Avoya Live Bookings engine, allowing consumers to take control of their cruise reservations directly through the agency’s website. By enabling self-service booking but retaining the essential support of a travel advisor, Avoya has positioned itself at the forefront of
Windstar Cruises recently announced an exciting new chapter for its flagship vessel, the Wind Surf. This charming sailing ship, known for its intimate cruising experiences, will undergo a major renovation starting this November in Cádiz, Spain. The first phase is set to culminate on December 21, introducing a host of refreshing modifications to guest suites
Viking Cruises has established itself as a remarkable player in the cruising industry since its founding in 1979. Initially recognized predominately for river cruises, the company has adapted to the changing landscape of the travel market and now stands at a critical juncture—shifting from its roots into a more diverse cruise offering. This change is
Margaritaville at Sea, known for its unique blend of relaxation and adventure, is set to broaden its scope in the cruising industry. With the launch of new itineraries to Nassau, Bahamas, the cruise line is integrating an innovative ship-to-resort concept in collaboration with the Margaritaville Beach Resort Nassau. This fresh approach not only underscores the
CruiseWorld, an annual gathering organized by Northstar Travel Group, is set to take place at the Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center from November 6 to 8, offering a wealth of knowledge and resources for travel professionals. This year, Visit Lauderdale will serve as the official destination sponsor, highlighting the area’s commitment to promoting travel
The luxury travel industry is ever-evolving, and in this landscape, the interplay between high-end hotels and cruise lines is becoming increasingly significant. As more travelers seek profound and transformative experiences, cruise companies have begun to look towards their land-based counterparts for inspiration. A case in point is Explora Journeys, whose new president, Anna Nash, previously
The concept of “normalization” has gained significant traction in discussions surrounding the travel industry as it emerges from the substantial disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. While industry experts gather at forums like the World Travel & Tourism Council’s Global Summit to assess current trends, divergent opinions on travel growth have surfaced. Some industry leaders
In the competitive sphere of travel, loyalty programs are emerging as a critical strategy for enhancing customer engagement and retention. This trend is particularly evident in the cruise industry, where companies are recognizing the importance of cultivating long-term relationships with their clientele. From earning points for complimentary coffee at Starbucks to accumulating miles for business-class
As the world emerges from the pandemic’s grasp, the travel industry finds itself navigating a new landscape characterized by what many are calling “normalization.” This term describes the deceleration of the explosive growth that defined travel post-COVID. While some industry experts contend that this slowdown marks a return to a more sustainable growth rate, others
The SS United States, often affectionately referred to as “the Big U,” has a legacy that resonates deeply within maritime history. Launched in 1952, the ocean liner was a marvel of engineering and design, synonymous with speed and luxury. It dominated the transatlantic route until its retirement in 1969, boasting a record that has yet
Hurricane Milton has caused significant disruption to the cruise industry in Florida, with numerous ships delayed in their return to various ports across the state. As the hurricane continues to make its way through the region, cruise lines are scrambling to assess the damage and make alternative plans for their fleet, which has a far-reaching
Royal Caribbean International has unveiled ambitious plans to expand its repertoire of exclusive cruise experiences with the introduction of Perfect Day Mexico. Slated to open in 2027, this new private destination is strategically located in Mahahual, south of Cozumel, in the vibrant state of Quintana Roo. As the cruise industry increasingly pivots towards unique, immersive
Following a protracted seven-month break driven by escalating political unrest in Haiti, Royal Caribbean International is poised to re-establish its presence in Labadee, the cruise line’s private resort. The anticipation culminates today with the arrival of the Adventure of the Seas, to be followed shortly by the Symphony of the Seas. This decision comes amidst
In an increasingly competitive cruise market, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has taken bold strides to redefine what holidaymakers can expect from their seafaring adventures. Under the leadership of President David Herrera, the company has introduced a revamped package called “More at Sea,” set to launch on January 1. This new initiative seeks to replace the