﻿<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?><!--RSS Genrated: Thu, 01 Oct 2026 02:08:53 GMT--><rss version="2.0" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:ev="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/event/"><channel><title>CruiseandFerry.net</title><link>https://www.cruiseandferry.net:443/Home/mid/420/ctl/rss</link><atom:link href="https://www.cruiseandferry.net:443/Home/mid/420/ctl/rss" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /><description>RSS document</description><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Laura Hyde]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[ECN launches Responsible Expedition Framework]]></title><link>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/ecn-launches-responsible-expedition-framework</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://www.cruiseandferry.net/Portals/0/EasyDNNNews/16480/ECNannouncement2026_web.jpeg" length="151827"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[  Expedition Cruise Network (ECN) is launching a new initiative designed to help travel advisors understand and communicate the responsible tourism practices of expedition cruise operators to their guests.  

 The ECN Responsible Expedition Framework will annually evaluate participating operators across six areas of responsible expedition cruising to provide a detailed report highlighting the operator’s strengths, as well as areas for further improvement. 

 The six areas of assessment include: certifications and external validation; sustainable management and governance; environmental stewardship; community, cultural and destination stewardship; guest education and expedition ethos; and positive impact and conservation contribution. 

 Eleven expedition cruise operators have completed the inaugural assessment of 35 questions to become the first participants. These include 60South, Aranui Cruises, Australis Cruises, Aqua Expeditions, Golden Galapagos, HX Expeditions, Oceanwide ...]]></description><pubDate>Wed, 30 Sep 2026 11:01:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/ecn-launches-responsible-expedition-framework</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[8f54ab82-34dc-4545-94e0-7eb7beaa25ec-16480]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Alex Smith]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Best in class: Onboard spaces setting the standard for cruise interiors]]></title><link>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/best-in-class-onboard-spaces-setting-the-standard-for-cruise-interiors</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://www.cruiseandferry.net/Portals/0/EasyDNNNews/16481/Best-in-11.jpg" length="616442"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[  Exceptional cruise ship interiors are rarely defined by a single striking space. Instead, they are the product of a multitude of different decisions made in concert: balancing beauty with operability, reading guest expectations correctly, and holding a coherent vision together across a project that can take years to complete. For Petu Kummala, assistant vice president of interior design and architecture, newbuilds and refurbishments at Carnival Cruise Line, getting that combination right starts with embracing the variety of experiences a cruise ship can offer.  

 “That’s the beauty of cruise ships when it’s done right,” says Kummala. “Our ships are vibrant and diverse – we have everything from a lively barbecue restaurant and a speciality steakhouse to entertainment venues, elegant cocktail bars and world-class production shows. There’s something for every guest and every occasion.” 

 Achieving that variety without losing coherence means matching the design of each space to ...]]></description><pubDate>Wed, 30 Sep 2026 10:15:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/best-in-class-onboard-spaces-setting-the-standard-for-cruise-interiors</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[8f54ab82-34dc-4545-94e0-7eb7beaa25ec-16481]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Rebecca Gibson]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[MSC Group breaks ground on new private Bahamian island]]></title><link>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/msc-group-breaks-ground-on-new-private-bahamian-island</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://www.cruiseandferry.net/Portals/0/EasyDNNNews/16479/sandy-cay-groundbreaking-web2.jpeg" length="151425"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[  MSC Group’s Cruise Division started construction on Sandy Cay, its new luxury private island destination located in The Bahamas, on 28 September.  

 The groundbreaking ceremony took place on 28 September and was attended by representatives from MSC Group’s Cruise Division, including executive chairman Pierfrancesco Vago, and government officials such as The Honourable Philip Davis, KC, MP, Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas. 

 Sandy Cay is scheduled to open in 2028 and will be available exclusively for MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys guests. The destination is located adjacent to MSC Group’s other private island, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, and will offer curated wellness and relaxation experiences. It will also have “exceptional” dining venues, private retreats and relaxation spaces. 

  

 MSC Group is ...]]></description><pubDate>Tue, 29 Sep 2026 09:57:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/msc-group-breaks-ground-on-new-private-bahamian-island</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[8f54ab82-34dc-4545-94e0-7eb7beaa25ec-16479]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Laura Hyde]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Why Aquafil believes the cruise industry must treat sustainability as asset management]]></title><link>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/why-aquafil-believes-the-cruise-industry-must-treat-sustainability-as-asset-management</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://www.cruiseandferry.net/Portals/0/EasyDNNNews/16478/Circularity-in-motion-1_975x548.jpg" length="667195"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[  The maritime sector is facing monumental environmental challenges, including tightening regulatory pressures and evolving passenger expectations surrounding sustainability. As such, cruise lines, shipbuilders and interior design decision-makers must play their part to make improvements within a much larger ecosystem. They should stop viewing sustainability as an optional environmental cost or problem to solve and start treating it as asset management.  

 Thankfully, this shift is happening, albeit slowly. Many designers are no longer solely focused on aesthetic appeal and technical performance metrics; today, a product’s environmental impact is just as critical. This is why all design decision-makers working on newbuild ships or refits must choose sustainable materials much earlier in the design process and not just as an afterthought. 

 However, they must go further still. Rather than simply choosing recycled materials, decision-makers should ask themselves if an interior ...]]></description><pubDate>Mon, 28 Sep 2026 12:59:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/why-aquafil-believes-the-cruise-industry-must-treat-sustainability-as-asset-management</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[8f54ab82-34dc-4545-94e0-7eb7beaa25ec-16478]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Laura Hyde]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Century Cruises’ Century Diamond to debut in August 2027]]></title><link>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/century-cruises-century-diamond-to-debut-in-august-2027</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://www.cruiseandferry.net/Portals/0/EasyDNNNews/16476/CenturyDiamond_web.jpeg" length="188245"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[  Century Cruises has ordered a second ship for its fleet of European river cruise vessels; Century Diamond will be purpose-built for the rivers of Europe and is scheduled to sail its inaugural voyage in August 2027.  

 Century Diamond will accommodate 174 guests in 76 cabins and suites across four decks. The 135-metre-long ship will feature advanced hybrid propulsion technology and will be constructed using approximately 60 per cent recycled steel. The cruise line is using recycled materials and advanced propulsion technology to reflect its commitment to creating a new generation of luxury river cruise vessels that “consider not only how guests experience the world’s great rivers, but also how those rivers are protected for generations to come”. 

 The ship’s design will bring together Century Cruises’ roots on the Yangtze and the history of Europe’s rivers onboard. The main restaurant will reflect Germany’s Black Forest, with design details incorporating Century Cruises’ ...]]></description><pubDate>Mon, 28 Sep 2026 11:30:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/century-cruises-century-diamond-to-debut-in-august-2027</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[8f54ab82-34dc-4545-94e0-7eb7beaa25ec-16476]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Rebecca Gibson]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Ferrol Cruise Port to open new passenger terminal in spring 2027]]></title><link>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/ferrol-cruise-port-to-open-new-passenger-terminal-in-spring-2027</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://www.cruiseandferry.net/Portals/0/EasyDNNNews/16477/Ferrol-new-terminal-credit-GPH.jpeg" length="227477"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[  Global Ports Holding (GPH) is aiming to open a new passenger terminal at Ferrol Cruise Port in Galicia, Spain, by spring 2027.  

 GPH has a 30-year concession to build and operate the cruise terminal, which will be constructed on a 960-metre-square site at the port’s outer quay during a two-phase project. In the first phase, the company will begin building the 480-metre-square terminal. 

 “Our partnership with GPH is a strategic alliance and a strong commitment to both the port and the city,” said José Antonio Álvarez Vidal, president of the Ferrol-San Cibrao Port Authority. “Ferrol Cruise Port will help boost passenger traffic, showcase our region’s tourism appeal and strengthen the connection between the port and the city. Alongside the Abrir Ferrol al Mar project, it represents another important step in Ferrol’s transformation, opening our maritime and historic heritage to citizens and visitors alike.” 

 Ferrol Cruise Port is one of 35 ports in GPH’s global network. 

 ...]]></description><pubDate>Mon, 28 Sep 2026 11:24:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/ferrol-cruise-port-to-open-new-passenger-terminal-in-spring-2027</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[8f54ab82-34dc-4545-94e0-7eb7beaa25ec-16477]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Laura Hyde]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Porto Cruise Terminal handles 11 consecutive turnarounds for Mein Schiff 6]]></title><link>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/porto-cruise-terminal-handles-11-consecutive-turnarounds-for-mein-schiff-6</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://www.cruiseandferry.net/Portals/0/EasyDNNNews/16475/PortoMeinSchiff1_web.jpeg" length="149560"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[  Porto Cruise Terminal at the Port of Leixões in northern Portugal handled 11 consecutive turnaround operations for the TUI Cruises’ Mein Schiff 6 between 2 July and 10 September 2026.  

 During the turnaround operations, a total of 54,351 passengers, along with over 10,000 crew members, passed through the Porto Cruise Terminal: 24,387 for embarkations, 24,334 for disembarkations and an additional 5,630 transit passengers. Port agency and husbandry services were handled by Capasiar Unipessoal while Intercruises Shoreside & Port Services acted as the ground agent managing passenger travel and logistics. 

 Over the last 11 weeks, the 2,700-guest ship sailed Atlantic Coast itineraries calling at Bilbao, La Coruña, Vigo and Cadiz in Spain; Le Verdon-sur-Mer, France; Gibraltar; Tangier, Morocco; and Lisbon, Portugal, from Porto Cruise Terminal. 

 The Port of Leixões also handled another nine turnaround operations, bringing the total to 20 operations in 2026, an increase of 67 per ...]]></description><pubDate>Mon, 28 Sep 2026 11:17:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/porto-cruise-terminal-handles-11-consecutive-turnarounds-for-mein-schiff-6</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[8f54ab82-34dc-4545-94e0-7eb7beaa25ec-16475]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Laura Hyde]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[River cruising the Century way]]></title><link>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/river-cruising-the-century-way</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://www.cruiseandferry.net/Portals/0/EasyDNNNews/16474/Cruising-the-century-way-1_975x5482.jpg" length="218458"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[  For more than three decades, Century Cruises has been one of China’s leading river cruise operators. While the brand’s name might not be familiar across Europe, the company has a long history operating vessels for some of the river cruise industry’s biggest brands. Now, following a strategic shift to a business-to-consumer model, Century Cruises is bringing its own luxury brand to European waterways with the launch of its new ship, Century Star.  

 “For 30 years, we’ve had these amazing ships operating in Europe, which were the highest-rated products for a lot of cruise lines, but no one really knew it was Century Cruises,” says David Fredericks, president and general manager of the Americas at Century Cruises. “The history has always been there, but now we’re telling our own story directly. We took delivery of Century Star in June and it’s looking amazing. It will be the first ship on the rivers of Europe to feature electronic propulsion technology, as well as being made from 60 ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 25 Sep 2026 13:29:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/river-cruising-the-century-way</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[8f54ab82-34dc-4545-94e0-7eb7beaa25ec-16474]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Alex Smith]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Explora Journeys signs letter of intent for fleet of river cruise ships]]></title><link>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/explora-journeys-signs-letter-of-intent-for-fleet-of-river-cruise-ships</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://www.cruiseandferry.net/Portals/0/EasyDNNNews/16472/Explora1_web-1248-702-p-L-100.jpg" length="128452"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[  Explora Journeys has signed a letter of intent with Dutch shipbuilder Den Breejen Shipyard for the construction of a fleet of river cruise ships.  

 The agreement marks the luxury cruise brand’s first entry into the river cruise market. Explora currently operates a fleet of three ocean vessels, with three more, Explora IV, Explora V and Explora VI, set to be delivered by 2028. 

 According to the company, it intends to bring its philosophy of “combining the freedom and discovery of travelling by sea with the elegance and refinement of European hospitality and design” to river cruising in Europe. 

 Further details about the new river ships’ design, onboard experiences, delivery schedules and initial itineraries will be announced at a later date. 

   Read more: President Anna Nash explains how Explora Journeys is ushering in a new chapter for luxury cruising   ]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 25 Sep 2026 05:03:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/explora-journeys-signs-letter-of-intent-for-fleet-of-river-cruise-ships</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[8f54ab82-34dc-4545-94e0-7eb7beaa25ec-16472]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Kasturi Datta]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Ambassador Cruise Line acquires Oceania Sirena to serve German market]]></title><link>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/ambassador-cruise-line-acquires-oceania-sirena-to-serve-german-market</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://www.cruiseandferry.net/Portals/0/EasyDNNNews/16471/Ambella_sharpened-4.jpeg" length="196558"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[  Ambassador Cruise Line is expanding its fleet with the acquisition of Oceania Cruises’ Oceania Sirena. The ship will be the first of four ships to sail under Ambassador Cruises’ new brand, Ambassador Kreuzfahrten in 2028.  

 The 670-guest ship will continue to operate under Oceania Cruises until spring 2028, after which it will be renamed Ambella to serve the German market with a fully-German speaking guest experience. 

 The ship will offer adults-only cruises and isexpected to operate two repositioning cruises and 11 destination-focused itineraries between May and September 2028. Bremerhaven and Kiel in Germany will serve as homeports. 

 “The acquisition of the Oceania Sirena, its future launch as Ambella, and the launch of Ambassador Cruises represent a significant milestone in our journey to establish Ambassador as Europe’s leading cruise provider for affordable quality in the silver-ager segment,” said Christian Verhounig, CEO of Ambassador Cruise Lines. “When we ...]]></description><pubDate>Wed, 23 Sep 2026 15:39:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/ambassador-cruise-line-acquires-oceania-sirena-to-serve-german-market</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[8f54ab82-34dc-4545-94e0-7eb7beaa25ec-16471]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Richard Humphreys]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[How the shipping industry is building a safer future at sea]]></title><link>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/how-the-shipping-industry-is-building-a-safer-future-at-sea</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://www.cruiseandferry.net/Portals/0/EasyDNNNews/16470/Building-a-safer-future-1_975x548.jpg" length="401138"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[  Safety at sea has always depended on robust regulation, skilled crews and proven equipment and technology.  

 The new 2026-2027 World Maritime Day campaign from the International Maritime Organization (IMO), ‘From Policy to Practice: Powering Maritime Excellence’, emphasises the need for the global regulatory approach developed by the IMO to not just be adopted ‘in principle’, but to drive concrete action and real-world results. IMO secretary-general Arsenio Dominguez said: “When we talk about ‘practice’, we are talking about people. The seafarers on the ship; the people in the port; those managing ship operations, ship recycling workers, port state control officers and flag state administrators. To make the maritime industry truly sustainable, we must ensure these high standards are felt in every port and on every deck – not selectively, not unevenly, but globally. IMO is committed to powering this transition through technical cooperation and direct support.” 

 IMO audits ...]]></description><pubDate>Wed, 23 Sep 2026 11:08:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/how-the-shipping-industry-is-building-a-safer-future-at-sea</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[8f54ab82-34dc-4545-94e0-7eb7beaa25ec-16470]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Alex Smith]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Holland America Line unveils new Beach Club and food pavilion at RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay]]></title><link>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/holland-america-line-unveils-new-beach-club-and-food-pavilion-at-relaxaway-half-moon-cay</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://www.cruiseandferry.net/Portals/0/EasyDNNNews/16469/RelaxAway-enhancement-1.jpg" length="476738"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[  Holland America Line is completing a series of enhancements at RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas, including a new Beach Club and food pavilion, ahead of the destination ’ s 30th anniversary in 2027.  

 The enhanced destination will be available to guests on more than two dozen Caribbean itineraries sailing between October 2026 and April 2027. 

 The new Beach Club will offer a dedicated area for guests who purchase a day pass, with priority tendering from their ship to the island. It will include waiter service, all-inclusive alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, beach accessories and dedicated food and beverage offerings. The Beach Club’s design uses Holland America Line’s blue, orange and cream palette alongside natural textures and open-air spaces. 

 Outside the Beach Club, a new food pavilion will serve a complimentary island-focused menu, while existing bars and eateries are being renovated. The beach area is also being updated with additional daybeds, canopy ...]]></description><pubDate>Wed, 23 Sep 2026 06:48:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/holland-america-line-unveils-new-beach-club-and-food-pavilion-at-relaxaway-half-moon-cay</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[8f54ab82-34dc-4545-94e0-7eb7beaa25ec-16469]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Kasturi Datta]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Scenic Group to expand in India with two ultra-luxury river ships by 2030]]></title><link>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/scenic-group-to-expand-in-india-with-two-ultra-luxury-river-ships-by-2030</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://www.cruiseandferry.net/Portals/0/EasyDNNNews/16468/Scenic-Aura_article-body-image-2-22.jpeg" length="223373"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[  Scenic Group will expand its fleet with the addition of two ultra-luxury river ships that will operate on the Brahmaputra River in India from 2029/30.   

 The cruise line will partner with Assam Bengal Navigation (ABN), which brings a wealth of experience of operating in the region.   

 “ABN has spent more than two decades developing river cruising on the Brahmaputra and Ganges,” said Ashish Phookan, founder and managing director of ABN. “This partnership brings together our operating experience and knowledge of India’s rivers with Scenic’s global luxury cruise expertise, brand and international distribution. We believe it can significantly expand India’s position on the global river cruise map.”   

 The partnership follows Scenic Aura’s inaugural Hooghly River voyage through India’s West Bengal state, which will begin in October 2027. Scenic Aura, which accommodates 44 guests, will offer 10-night river cruises and curated excursions across India and Sri Lanka.  

 ...]]></description><pubDate>Tue, 22 Sep 2026 14:55:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/scenic-group-to-expand-in-india-with-two-ultra-luxury-river-ships-by-2030</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[8f54ab82-34dc-4545-94e0-7eb7beaa25ec-16468]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Kasturi Datta]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Port of Vancouver on track for record cruise season]]></title><link>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/port-of-vancouver-on-track-for-record-cruise-season-1</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://www.cruiseandferry.net/Portals/0/EasyDNNNews/16467/Port-of-Vancouver-2.jpeg" length="117919"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[  Port of Vancouver in Canada is on track to achieve record cruise numbers in 2026, having welcomed 141 ship calls and 560,000 passengers at its Canada Place terminal between February and June 2026.  

 The number of cruise calls and passengers have increased by eight per cent and 11 per cent from 2025, respectively. 

 Canada Place is a popular homeport for cruise ships sailing to Alaska, enabling passengers to start and end their journeys locally and vessels to re-stock and re-fuel between sailings. 

 “We are thrilled to see Vancouver’s cruise sector continue to thrive, as more and more passengers choose to make our vibrant city a core part of their Alaskan adventure,” said Peter Xotta, president and CEO of the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority. “I want to thank the countless cruise and destination partners we work with to make Canada Place cruise operations a success. Every cruise ship visit to Vancouver injects about $3 million into the economy – creating local jobs and ...]]></description><pubDate>Tue, 22 Sep 2026 10:33:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/port-of-vancouver-on-track-for-record-cruise-season-1</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[8f54ab82-34dc-4545-94e0-7eb7beaa25ec-16467]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Laura Hyde]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Marenia: medical wellness at sea, created by Vikand and Anna Bjurstam]]></title><link>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/marenia-medical-wellness-at-sea-created-by-vikand-and-anna-bjurstam</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://www.cruiseandferry.net/Portals/0/EasyDNNNews/16466/Marenia_web.jpeg" length="86317"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[  Wellness at sea is becomingly an increasingly important aspect of the cruise guest experience. Cruise lines such as Virgin Voyages, Celebrity Cruises, MSC Cruises, Crystal Cruises, P&O Cruises and Royal Caribbean International now offer IV therapy and medi-spa treatments as part of their wellness at sea programmes.  

 Marenia goes one step further. It is not a spa adding clinical services; it is the ship’s medical operation – with doctors, nurses, an equipped medical centre and a laboratory – opening its doors to wellness. 

 Created by maritime healthcare company Vikand and wellness entrepreneur Anna Bjurstam, Marenia is a medical wellness concept created for the cruise industry. The medical team onboard are able to actively raise guests’ wellbeing with treatments such as vitamin shots, IV hydration, blood panels drawn and analysed, metabolic and fitness testing, and glucose monitoring, as well as a personal programme for guests who want to understand and improve their health. ...]]></description><pubDate>Tue, 22 Sep 2026 09:59:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/marenia-medical-wellness-at-sea-created-by-vikand-and-anna-bjurstam</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[8f54ab82-34dc-4545-94e0-7eb7beaa25ec-16466]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Laura Hyde]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Mike Corrigan on Interferry at 50]]></title><link>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/mike-corrigan-on-interferry-at-50</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://www.cruiseandferry.net/Portals/0/EasyDNNNews/16464/Interferry-at-50-Mike-Corrigan_975x5484.jpg" length="182123"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[  For 50 years, Interferry has brought together ferry operators from across the world. The organisation was founded in the USA in 1976 as the International Marine Transit Association and has evolved into an influential voice for the global ferry industry, representing its interests in regional and international regulatory arenas.  

 “When we first came together, it was for networking and social association,” says Mike Corrigan, CEO of Interferry. “The aim was to get operators from various parts of the world together to identify similarities and challenges, as well as to discuss how we could work together. That’s still a big part of it, but we’ve become much more focused, particularly when it comes to representing the industry in regulatory arenas, whether it’s at the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the European Union (EU) or other organisations. We make sure the voice of the ferry industry, which makes up just three to five per cent of the shipping industry, is heard.” ...]]></description><pubDate>Mon, 21 Sep 2026 10:30:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/mike-corrigan-on-interferry-at-50</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[8f54ab82-34dc-4545-94e0-7eb7beaa25ec-16464]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Alex Smith]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Cruise order book: Diverse demand]]></title><link>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/cruise-order-book-diverse-demand</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://www.cruiseandferry.net/Portals/0/EasyDNNNews/16463/Image-12.jpg" length="690018"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[  The cruise order book continues to span an increasingly broad range of vessel sizes and operating models, from the largest ocean ships to small expedition vessels and destination-specific riverboats designed for focused itineraries. Rather than following a single direction in terms of ship size, the upcoming order book increasingly reflects the diversity of the modern cruise industry. With more people than ever choosing to cruise, operators are looking to design their ships for new demographics and destinations, adding new and innovative features to adapt their offerings.  

 Among the ships due to enter service over the coming months are vessels that illustrate this diversity, including the 6,758-passenger MSC World Asia, the hydrogen-powered Viking Libra, new expedition ships for Antarctica and smaller river vessels targeting destinations from the Nile to the Seine. MSC World Asia, scheduled for delivery from Chantiers de l’Atlantique in 2026, will continue MSC Cruises’ ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 18 Sep 2026 09:19:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/cruise-order-book-diverse-demand</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[8f54ab82-34dc-4545-94e0-7eb7beaa25ec-16463]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Alex Smith]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Carnival Jubilee to sail first short cruises from Galveston]]></title><link>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/carnival-jubilee-to-sail-first-short-cruises-from-galveston</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://www.cruiseandferry.net/Portals/0/EasyDNNNews/16462/Carnival-Galv-1.jpg" length="435639"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[  Carnival Jubilee will offer four- and five-day cruises from Galveston, Texas, for the first time as part of a new short-cruise programme for Carnival Cruise Line’s 2028/29 season.  

 The ship will offer a mix of four-, five-, six- and eight-day cruises from April 2028 to April 2029. The new four-day Western Caribbean itineraries will depart on select Thursdays from 27 April 2028 to 26 April 2029, calling at Cozumel, Mexico. Five-day sailings will depart on select Saturdays and Mondays from 17 April 2028 to 30 April 2029, visiting Cozumel and Progreso, Mexico. 

 It will also operate a six-day Western Caribbean cruise departing on 29 October 2028, calling at Cozumel and Isla Tropicale, Honduras. Two eight-day cruises are also scheduled: a Bahamas sailing departing on 1 April 2028 and calling at Celebration Key, RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay and Nassau, the Bahamas; and a Western Caribbean sailing departing on 9 April 2028 and calling at Cozumel, Isla Tropicale and Montego Bay, ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 18 Sep 2026 03:27:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/carnival-jubilee-to-sail-first-short-cruises-from-galveston</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[8f54ab82-34dc-4545-94e0-7eb7beaa25ec-16462]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Richard Humphreys]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[CLIA report highlights rise in fuel efficiency, shore power and new environmental technology]]></title><link>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/clia-report-highlights-rise-in-fuel-efficiency-shore-power-and-new-environmental-technology</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://www.cruiseandferry.net/Portals/0/EasyDNNNews/16461/CLIAETP-1_web.jpeg" length="88854"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[  Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has published its annual  Environmental Technologies and Practices (ETP) report .  

 This year’s report reflects environmental technologies in place on CLIA-member cruise line ships in operation through 2025, which covered 297 oceangoing ships. The results show continuous and measurable progress by CLIA-member cruise lines in the adoption of environmental technologies and practices. 

 “Year after year, the data show cruise lines continuing to invest in the technologies, fuels and operational capabilities that are making the global cruise fleet more efficient and positioning it for the future,” said Bud Darr, president and CEO of CLIA. “The progress reflected in this report is the result of sustained investment and innovation by the world’s cruise lines – from more efficient ships and fuel-flexible engines to onshore power capability and advanced environmental systems. 

 “Cruise lines are continuing to invest in support of ...]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 17 Sep 2026 10:16:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/clia-report-highlights-rise-in-fuel-efficiency-shore-power-and-new-environmental-technology</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[8f54ab82-34dc-4545-94e0-7eb7beaa25ec-16461]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Rebecca Gibson]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[CLIA’s Bud Darr: Growing the cruise sector responsibly]]></title><link>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/clias-bud-darr-growing-the-cruise-sector-responsibly</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://www.cruiseandferry.net/Portals/0/EasyDNNNews/16460/CLIA-Bud-Darr_975x548.jpg" length="389771"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[  Cruising is more popular than ever. Figures from Cruise Lines International Association’s (CLIA) 2026  State of the Cruise Industry Report  indicate that 37.3 million passengers cruised in 2025, up from 34.6 million in 2024. Nearly 90 per cent of those who sailed in 2025 intend to do so again in future, and annual global passenger numbers are forecast to hit 42 million in 2029.  

 To keep pace with this growth, cruise operators are expanding their fleets. Today, CLIA has 327 vessels in its ocean-going fleet and there are a further 86 ships representing a $98 billion capital investment in the current order book. 

 As the number of ships increases, ports and destinations are facing increasing pressure to ensure they have the infrastructure and strategies in place to carefully manage cruise tourism. We ask CLIA president and CEO Bud Darr how its members are working with stakeholders across the industry to drive sustainable growth and manage tourism responsibly in the destinations ...]]></description><pubDate>Wed, 16 Sep 2026 11:04:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/clias-bud-darr-growing-the-cruise-sector-responsibly</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[8f54ab82-34dc-4545-94e0-7eb7beaa25ec-16460]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Alex Smith]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Whitney Houston production headlines Norwegian Aura entertainment lineup]]></title><link>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/whitney-houston-production-headlines-norwegian-aura-entertainment-lineup</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://www.cruiseandferry.net/Portals/0/EasyDNNNews/16459/Norwegian-Whit-1.jpg" length="418353"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[  Norwegian Cruise Line has unveiled the entertainment lineup for its new ship, Norwegian Aura, including a headline production called  Whitney: A Celebration of Whitney Houston.   

 Developed with The Estate of Whitney E. Houston and Primary Wave Music, the 45-minute show will be staged in the ship’s three-storey Aura Theatre & Club and will feature live vocals, a live band and immersive visuals. 

 “Every new ship is an opportunity for Norwegian Cruise Line to push the boundaries of what entertainment at sea can be,” said Bryan White, vice president of entertainment production at Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings. “Following the success of our Prince and Elton John productions on Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Luna, respectively, this new show reimagines Whitney’s legendary catalogue through contemporary arrangements, dynamic storytelling, stunning visuals and powerful live performances.” 

 ...]]></description><pubDate>Wed, 16 Sep 2026 06:26:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/whitney-houston-production-headlines-norwegian-aura-entertainment-lineup</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[8f54ab82-34dc-4545-94e0-7eb7beaa25ec-16459]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Rebecca Gibson]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Expedition cruising is entering a new era, says Akvile Marozaite]]></title><link>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/expedition-cruising-is-entering-a-new-era-says-akvile-marozaite</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://www.cruiseandferry.net/Portals/0/EasyDNNNews/16458/Akvile-photo1.jpg" length="504810"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[  Once considered a niche form of travel for intrepid explorers, expedition cruising is evolving at pace and becoming more mainstream.  

 “The growing number of operators and newer, more luxurious ships are attracting the attention of a more varied clientele,” says Akvile Marozaite, CEO and co-founder of Expedition Cruise Network (ECN), which represents 30 expedition cruise operators and more than 2,400 travel advisors. “The travel trade is seeing more enquiries from retired couples and high-end, luxury clients, so there’s definitely more scope to attract travellers within these groups who may never have considered expedition cruising as an appealing way to explore the world.” 

 Destinations are becoming more diverse too. “Cold-water regions are still the most popular places for expedition cruises but early findings from the travel advisor pulse study we’re conducting suggest there’s increasing consumer interest in warm-weather destinations like the Kimberley Coast in ...]]></description><pubDate>Tue, 15 Sep 2026 16:13:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/expedition-cruising-is-entering-a-new-era-says-akvile-marozaite</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[8f54ab82-34dc-4545-94e0-7eb7beaa25ec-16458]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Kasturi Datta]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Meyer Turku begins construction on Royal Caribbean International’s fifth Icon-class ship]]></title><link>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/meyer-turku-begins-construction-on-royal-caribbean-internationals-fifth-icon-class-ship</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://www.cruiseandferry.net/Portals/0/EasyDNNNews/16457/Meyer-Turku-21.jpeg" length="277710"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[  Royal Caribbean International and Meyer Turku have held a keel laying ceremony at the shipbuilder’s yard in Finland for the cruise line’s fifth Icon-class ship.    

 The vessel will include signature venues such as the Royal Caribbean beach retreat, resort escape and theme park adventure. It is expected to enter service in 2028, followed by a sixth Icon-class ship in 2029 and seventh in 2030. More information on the ship’s features will be available in the coming months.   

 “The start of construction for the fifth Icon class ship reflects the strength of the long-term partnership between Royal Caribbean and Meyer Turku,” said Casimir Lindholm, CEO of Meyer Turku. “Building a series of ships allows us to continuously learn, improve and innovate, and each new vessel benefits from the expertise gained throughout the programme. Together with our partner network, we are proud to demonstrate the world-class shipbuilding capabilities developed in Turku and to help shape the future ...]]></description><pubDate>Tue, 15 Sep 2026 11:52:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/meyer-turku-begins-construction-on-royal-caribbean-internationals-fifth-icon-class-ship</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[8f54ab82-34dc-4545-94e0-7eb7beaa25ec-16457]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Kasturi Datta]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[FIFI4MARINE’s battery fire-suppression system becomes first to receive RINA Type Approval]]></title><link>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/fifi4marines-battery-fire-suppression-system-becomes-first-to-receive-rina-type-approval</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://www.cruiseandferry.net/Portals/0/EasyDNNNews/16456/FIFI4MARINE_web.jpeg" length="133518"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[  Dutch engineering and fire safety company, FIFI4MARINE’s lithium-ion battery fire-suppression system has become the first of its kind to receive RINA Type Approval.  

 The RINA certification – which was formally presented at SMM Hamburg 2026 – recognises the product design of FIFI4MARINE’s system’s and its suitability for repeat application. 

 The solution removes the need to carry out the same design assessment process at the start of every project. Vessel-specific integration, class and statutory requirements will still need to be addressed individually. 

 “Being the first battery fire-suppression system to receive RINA Type Approval is a major milestone for FIFI4MARINE and for the work our team has put into this technology,” said Cor Meedendorp, founder of FIFI4MARINE. “Battery fire safety cannot be treated as an afterthought as electrification grows. Our focus has always been to detect early and limit escalation before a single event becomes a much larger problem. This ...]]></description><pubDate>Tue, 15 Sep 2026 10:05:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/fifi4marines-battery-fire-suppression-system-becomes-first-to-receive-rina-type-approval</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[8f54ab82-34dc-4545-94e0-7eb7beaa25ec-16456]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Laura Hyde]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[HX Expeditions introduces 26 new itineraries for 2028-2029 season]]></title><link>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/hx-expeditions-introduces-26-new-itineraries-for-2028-2029-season</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://www.cruiseandferry.net/Portals/0/EasyDNNNews/16455/HX-202829_web2.jpeg" length="160768"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[  HX Expeditions is introducing 57 voyages across 14 destinations worldwide, including 26 new itineraries and two destinations new to the cruise line, for its 2028-2029 season.  

 The new itineraries, which were  first teased at the cruise line’s 130th anniversary event in London in May 2026 , have been designed to make expedition cruising “more accessible”. They include Antarctic departures from Stanley in the Falkland Islands – the first by a major cruise company in more than a decade; a new 19-day ‘Antarctica & South Georgia’ cruise; shorter-format expeditions in Alaska and Greenland; HX’s first dedicated Scandinavia programme sailed by Spitsbergen; a 19-day Baffin Island circumnavigation into the Northwest Passage; and nine new ‘Ocean Crossing’ voyages connecting the Arctic and Antarctica. 

 The 2028-2029 season will feature calls at 1,288 ports and will see HX Expeditions’ ships travel as far as 81 degrees north and 70 degrees south. The shortest itinerary is six nights, ...]]></description><pubDate>Tue, 15 Sep 2026 09:24:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://www.cruiseandferry.net/articles/hx-expeditions-introduces-26-new-itineraries-for-2028-2029-season</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[8f54ab82-34dc-4545-94e0-7eb7beaa25ec-16455]]></dc:identifier></item></channel></rss>