THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO CRUISE ROUTE DESIGN CANADA CALLING Exploring the rugged coastlines of Atlantic Canada during the untapped summer season EXPANDING HORIZONS Carnival’s Ugo Savino explains why variety will be the key to success with guests PORT PRIORITIES Cruise line executives discuss what ports should be working on to contend for their next itineraries 2026
A vibrant waterfront. A full-day destination. gvha.ca/cruise Big port infrastructure. Small city charm. Victoria, Canada Just one day in Victoria, Canada, and your passengers will discover why it was named Best Small City in the World by readers of Condé Nast Traveler—three years in a row. Moments from the terminal, the city’s vibrant Inner Harbour and downtown offer countless cultural attractions, shops, cafés, restaurants, gardens and galleries. Enhanced port infrastructure THREE DEEP-SEA BERTHS • SECURE MOORING FOR LARGE VESSELS CREW SERVICES • STORAGE • PROVISIONING • WASTE DISPOSAL
1 Foreword Executive editor Jon Ingleton Head of editorial Rebecca Gibson Editor Alex Smith Editorial team Alice Chambers, Amber Hickman, Richard Humphreys, Laura Hyde Editorial contributors names..... Publication manager Kimberley McLean Account managers James Luscombe, Shelly Palmer, Benedict Pask Publisher Toby Ingleton Production manager Stuart Fairbrother Design Bruce Graham, Libby Sidebotham, Dhanika Vansia Cover image name Website development Chris Jackson Circulation Sophia Brinkley Advertise info@cruiseandferry.net Subscribe subscribe@tudor-rose.co.uk www.cruiseandferry.net/subscriptions Published by Tudor Rose Tudor House, 6 Friar Lane Leicester LE1 5RA Tel: +44 116 2229900 www.tudor-rose.co.uk ISSN 1367-2657 (Print) ISSN 2635-0394 (Online) Printed in Great Britain by The Manson Group. © 2025 Tudor Rose Holdings Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be stored or transmitted or reproduced in any form or by any means, including whether by photocopying, scanning, downloading onto computer or otherwise without the prior written permission from Tudor Rose Holdings Ltd. Views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher. Acceptance of advertisements does not imply official endorsement of the products or services concerned. While every care has been taken to ensure accuracy of content, no responsibility can be taken for any errors and/or omissions. Readers should take appropriate professional advice before acting on any issue raised herein. All wording in the Featured Ports & Destinations section is based on content provided by the companies profiled. The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject advertising material and editorial contributions. The publisher assumes no liability for the return or safety of unsolicited art, photography or manuscripts. 2026 Guided by experience Executive editor Jon Ingleton Head of editorial Rebecca Gibson Editor Alex Smith Editorial team Alice Chambers, Amber Hickman, Richard Humphreys, Laura Hyde Editorial contributor David Selby Head of media sales Shelly Palmer Publication manager Kimberley McLean Account managers Marie-Emmanuelle Dagri, James Luscombe, Benedict Pask Publisher Toby Ingleton Production manager Stuart Fairbrother Design Bruce Graham, Libby Sidebotham, Dhanika Vansia Cover image courtesy of Cruise Atlantic Canada Website development Chris Jackson Circulation Sophia Brinkley Advertise info@cruiseandferry.net Subscribe subscribe@tudor-rose.co.uk www.cruiseandferry.net/subscriptions £24.00 Published by Tudor Rose Tudor House, 6 Friar Lane Leicester LE1 5RA Tel: +44 116 2229900 www.tudor-rose.co.uk ISSN 1367-2657 (Print) ISSN 2635-0394 (Online) Printed in Great Britain by The Manson Group. © 2025 Tudor Rose Holdings Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be stored or transmitted or reproduced in any form or by any means, including whether by photocopying, scanning, downloading onto computer or otherwise without the prior written permission from Tudor Rose Holdings Ltd. Views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher. Acceptance of advertisements does not imply official endorsement of the products or services concerned. While every care has been taken to ensure accuracy of content, no responsibility can be taken for any errors and/or omissions. Readers should take appropriate professional advice before acting on any issue raised herein. The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject advertising material and editorial contributions. The publisher assumes no liability for the return or safety of unsolicited art, photography or manuscripts. Follow Cruise & Ferry: Clippers started to lose their dominance to steamships on maritime trade routes in the late 1800s, technology trumping tradition. But Captain Richard Woodget, master of the Cutty Sark, refused to concede, believing that his knowledge of the wind, currents and stars would enable him to chart faster routes. For a time, he was proved right, as Cutty Sark set speed records that stood for a decade – his story becoming a reminder that human mastery and experience can still rival technological advance. Explora Journeys’ Justin Poulsen (see page 60) shares Woodget’s faith in lived experience, saying: “Our itineraries are crafted with care and intention, guided by experience and a deep appreciation for culture, rather than by data alone.” Experience also provides a valued steer for Carnival’s Ugo Savino, who (as we learn in the keynote interview on page 6) draws on his own expertise to create itineraries that capture “the spirit of a Carnival vacation.” He likewise looks to guest feedback to validate decisions – both approaches ultimately safeguarding the classic cruise experience. The themes of tradition and acquired wisdom are evident in many of our features and interviews in this issue. Highlights include insights from The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s Spyros Almpertis and Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ Martin Lister in our Port Priorities feature (page 30), and Azamara’s Michael Pawlus, who (on page 64) also credits the knowledge shared by his port and destination partners It would be unwise to deny the growing contribution that technology provides to the itinerary design, planning and deployment process, but it’s reassuring to recognise that human participation remains central to this craft. Technology is making cruise operations safer, more efficient and more profitable, but it’s people who need to be credited for keeping passengers happy. Woodget would approve. Happy reading, Jon Ingleton Executive Editor, Cruise & Ferry Itinerary Planning
2 CONTENTS Keynote 6 Carnival Cruise Line’s Ugo Savino explains why offering guests variety will be the key to success as the cruise industry continues to see strong growth and expands to new demographics Marketwatch 12 A collection of news from cruise lines, ports and destinations worldwide, including a look at the growing number of cruise brands deploying ships in Asia in 2027 Cover story 24 Sarah Rumley of Cruise Atlantic Canada outlines why cruising in Atlantic Canada provides valuable opportunities for cruise brands and unforgettable experiences for their guests 40 David Selby asks executives from Marella Cruises, Windstar Cruises and Virgin Voyages how they are adapting their itineraries to meet new market dynamics Features 30 Executives from Explora Journeys, Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, MSC Cruises and The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection suggest what ports should prioritise to ensure they are top contenders for itineraries 6 24 40
3 60 Maiden Season 46 Windstar Cruises’ new Star Seeker will debut in December 2026 and spend its maiden season in the Caribbean, Alaska, Japan and Southeast Asia 48 When it joins the TUI Cruises fleet in 2026, Mein Schiff Flow will sail in both the Western Mediterranean and the Arabian Gulf 51 The first Orient Express Sailing Yachts vessel will follow the winds to explore the Mediterranean and Adriatic from May 2026 52 Four Seasons Yacht’s first luxury yacht will spend its inaugural season in the Mediterranean and Caribbean Planner perspectives 54 Dianna Rom shares how Windstar Cruises’ itineraries and shore experiences cater for travellers searching for authenticity and connection 56 Marcus Puttich designs itineraries for TUI Cruises, considering the line’s growing fleet of ships, guest demographics and port capacity 59 Four Seasons Yachts’ Ben Trodd provides a teaser of what guests can expect on Four Seasons I 60 Justin Poulsen explains how growing its fleet is enabling Explora Journeys to expand to new regions of the world 64 Michael Pawlus discusses the benefits of Azamara Cruises’ new double overnight stays 66 Andrea Zito of Swan Hellenic outlines why the cruise line is set to embark on its first voyages in the Asia-Pacific region 68 Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines uses guest feedback to create immersive itineraries for its guests, says Martin Lister 70 Mario Parodi and Adria Bono of Crystal Cruises describe how the cruise line balances practicality with authenticity in its itineraries 2026
5 Cruise & Ferry is proud to partner with the following organisations to support and promote their global visions and objectives www.onecaribbean.org | www.cruising.org | www.expeditioncruisenetwork.com www.interferry.com | www.ifiworld.org | www.oceancouncil.org | www.wtcf.org.cn CONTENTS 98 Feature 72 CFIP looks at how cruise lines, port authorities and local partners can collaborate to curate shore experiences that drive both satisfaction and sustainable tourism Association highlights 80 What is the future for cruising in the Med? We report on key discussions at the 67th MedCruise General Assembly in Croatia Regional Spotlight 84 North America’s varied landscapes and vibrant destinations continue to make it one of the most compelling regions for cruising Ports & destinations 90 Global Ports Holding Northern Europe 93 Islands of Guernsey Mediterranean 94 Mifsud Brothers North America 96 Port of LA Africa 97 Shipping Agência Viking Asia-Pacific 98 Port Marlborough Commentary 99 Sonja Merckel of cruisePAL discusses how itinerary route planning can be automated with its Port & Itinerary Planner Featured ports & destinations 101 Our guide to some of the most popular ports and destinations in the world 84
6 KEYNOTE Expanding horizons As the cruise industry continues to see strong growth and expands into new demographics, Carnival Cruise Line’s Ugo Savino speaks with Alex Smith about why offering guests variety will be the key to success
“ Guests want variety as they choose their next cruise” Cruise lines are navigating a period of rapid evolution as guest expectations shift and fleets expand to meet growing global demand. According to Cruise Lines International Association’s (CLIA) State of the Cruise Industry Report 2025, the number of cruise passengers worldwide is expected to exceed 35.7 million in 2024 – more than a six per cent rise compared to the record set before the pandemic. This growth is being fuelled not just by returning travellers, but also by a widening range of new guests discovering the appeal of life at sea. CLIA’s data shows the demographic profile of cruise travellers is steadily broadening. The average age of guests globally has declined from 46.7 years in 2018 to 45.6 in 2024, with marked growth among younger adults and multigenerational families. Millennials now make up around 22 per cent of cruise travellers, while nearly onethird of all passengers cruise with children or extended family members. The report also highlights that 83 per cent of millennials and 76 per cent of Generation X travellers who have cruised intend to sail again – clear evidence of deepening engagement across age groups and lifestyles. Ugo Savino, senior director of deployment and itinerary planning at Carnival Cruise Line, notes that this growing diversity of guest expectations is reshaping how the industry plans its voyages. “Guests want variety as they choose their next cruise,” he says. “They have always looked for enriching experiences with their family and friends, and that’s certainly still true, and while many still desire short, classic Caribbean cruises, we now see increasing interest in longer cruise options as well. Our latest deployment plans reflect this, with a wider array of options than ever and more Carnival Journeys voyages – special, unique cruises of nine days or more.” This appetite for variety is reflected in the widening breadth of destinations available to visit in itineraries, with lesser-known ports joining perennial favourites such as Miami, Nassau, The Bahamas, Barcelona, Spain and 7
CRUISE CAPITAL OF THE WORLD® CHOOSE FROM 22 CRUISE LINES FOR THE ULTIMATE ADVENTURE.
9 Caribbean cruises remain Carnival’s most popular itineraries, combining warm weather with attractive beaches Cozumel, Mexico. Cruise lines are increasingly seeking a balance that ensures guests have the choice of familiar ports and the excitement of new discoveries. “We’re designing itineraries to provide a balance of popular ports and hidden gems,” says Savino. “The series of 14-day Carnival Journeys cruises to Hawaii, for example, provides guests with multiple sailing options that include calls in Honolulu, Maui, Kauai, Hilo and Kona, plus a stop in Ensenada, Mexico.” Fleet renewal is also expanding what’s possible. As newer, larger and more efficient ships join the global fleet, cruise lines have greater flexibility in how and where they operate, allowing them to diversify itineraries and reach new markets. This evolution is visible across established and emerging cruise regions alike, where increased capacity and deployment flexibility have encouraged the development of new routes, homeports and destination experiences designed to appeal to a broader range of travellers. Carnival’s fleet currently includes three Excel-class ships, Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration and Carnival Jubilee, which will be followed by two more – Carnival Festivale and Carnival Tropicale – in 2027 and 2028. Powered by LNG, the 180,000gt vessels are designed to carry over 6,400 guests and 1,800 crew. “The Excel-class ships give us tremendous flexibility,” says Savino. “With their larger capacity, LNG efficiency and enhanced features, we’re able to homeport them in major markets and offer both traditional and new itineraries. We just announced for 2027 that when Carnival Festivale arrives to sail from Port Canaveral, its sister ship Mardi Gras will begin an KEYNOTE “ Destinations across The Bahamas, the Caribbean and Mexico remain among our most visited and consistently top guest satisfaction scores”
@jamaicacruising -----------
11 Celebration Key, Carnival’s new private island destination, opened in 2025 all-new schedule of four- and five-day sailings. This will make Mardi Gras the first ship in the class to offer shorter itineraries for guests, and make the Excel-class experiences and innovations available to more guests.” Private and exclusive destinations have also become increasingly central to the cruise experience. They allow operators to deliver consistent quality and distinctive shore excursions while controlling infrastructure, capacity and sustainability practices. According to CLIA’s State of the Cruise Industry Report 2025, investment in new and expanded private destinations is among the fastest-growing areas of cruise sector development. Cruise lines and their partners are projected to invest more than $7 billion between 2024 and 2028 to create or enhance ports and island experiences worldwide. Savino says Carnival’s upcoming developments are part of that broader transformation. “We’re thrilled that Celebration Key has already seen great early success,” he says. “The response from guests has been great. We continue to expand options to Celebration Key as we roll out our plans for 2027-2028. And next year, RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay, which is already a spectacular destination that’s extremely popular with our guests, will be expanded so more of our guests can enjoy its natural beauty. The beach area will be extended and we’re currently constructing a new pier to allow our largest ships to visit. We’re very excited about this enhancement, which will be another game-changer for our Caribbean itineraries.” The enduring appeal of classic cruise destinations remains undiminished, however. “Destinations across The Bahamas, the Caribbean and Mexico remain among our most visited and consistently top guest satisfaction scores,” says Savino. “These ports offer the quintessential experiences that most guests are looking for when they book a cruise with us – great weather, beautiful beaches, friendly locals and activities for all ages. It’s a reliable mix of fun and relaxation, which perfectly matches the spirit of a Carnival vacation.” As fleets modernise, itineraries diversify and new destinations emerge, the future of cruising appears more dynamic than ever. For Savino and itinerary planners across the industry, the challenge lies in keeping pace with travellers’ expectations while preserving the classic cruise experience that has proven so successful. KEYNOTE “ The Excel-class ships give us tremendous flexibility”
12 MARKETWATCH Cruise lines expand east with more ships in Asia for 2027 As Asia grows in popularity among passengers brands including Swan Hellenic, Windstar Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises and Explora Journeys prepare to send ships to the region Demand for cruising opportunities in Asia is growing, with 4.06 million people sailing in the Asia and Oceania region in 2024 compared with 3.6 million in 2023, according to Cruise Lines International Association’s (CLIA) State of the Cruise Industry Report 2025. To meet passenger demand, cruise lines are increasing the number of ships and itineraries available in the region from 2027 and beyond. Swan Hellenic will sail its first-ever cultural expedition cruises in the South Pacific and Asia from 5 April to 20 May 2026 onboard Minerva. The cruise line will offer a 13-night cruise from Honiara in the Solomon Islands to Jayapura in Indonesia; a 10-night voyage from Jayapura to Sorong in Indonesia; a nine- and 11-night sailing from Sorong to Manila in the Philippines; and an 11-night journey from Manila to Hiroshima in Japan. “We’re so proud that Minerva, the emblem of Swan Hellenic’s renaissance, is bringing the magic of this extraordinary region to our enthusiastic guests for the first time,” said Patrizia Iantorno, chief commercial officer at Swan Hellenic. “These first four cultural expedition cruises of the Asia-Pacific offer deep explorations of its immense cultural diversity and natural beauty, while launching a new chapter of global exploration for Swan Hellenic.” Windstar Cruises’ newest yacht Star Seeker will sail two itineraries in Southeast Asia in 2026, which can be combined with pre- and post-cruise tours. Windstar Cruises will take advantage of Star Seeker’s size to access smaller ports and docking locations that larger ships cannot reach, including sailing rivers to dock in Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam and Bangkok in Thailand, stopping at Koh Kood in Thailand – a port visited by only select small ships – and travelling to Krabi and Koh Yao Noi. In 2026-2027, Carnival Cruise Line will debut four new itineraries sailing to Japan, Southeast Asia and Australia onboard former P&O Australia ships Carnival Luminosa and Carnival Adventure. The ships will make maiden port calls to seven destinations in the region, offering 14-day cruises from Tokyo, Japan, to Singapore; from Singapore to Brisbane, Australia; and Sydney, Australia, to Singapore. They will also sail a nine-day roundtrip from Singapore. “These new itineraries represent some of our most enchanting and diverse offerings in the Asia-Pacific region,” said Photo: Unsplash/Luke Ow
13 Fred Stein, vice president of itinerary planning for Carnival Cruise Line. From January to April 2028, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises’ ship Europa will sail itineraries in Asia. The ship will visit Japan during the cherry blossom season and make extended calls in the Philippines and Southeast Asia. These itineraries are part of the cruise line’s new 2028 programme, which also includes a 12-day voyage from Colombo in Sri Lanka to Singapore, a 14-day cruise from Hong Kong to Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam, and a 15-day trip from Singapore to Hong Kong. Europa 2 will end the year with an itinerary from Dubai in the United Arab Emirates to Singapore, calling at the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Malaysia. The cruise line’s new expedition-class ship Hanseatic Spirit will sail to Indonesia, as well as making its first visit to the Kimberley region in Western Australia. Explora III will make Explora Journeys, the luxury lifestyle ocean travel brand of the MSC Group, inaugural voyages in the region as part of the cruise brand’s 2027-2028 Journeys Collection. The ship will sail to 47 destinations across Japan, South Korea, China, Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore, with each visit a maiden port call for the ship and cruise line. The itineraries include overnight stays in Tokyo, Osaka, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Naha, Japan, Ha Long Bay and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, and Bali, and have been planned to capture “Asia’s most evocative seasons” with calls during autumn to see the maple and ginkgo trees in Kyoto, as well as spring’s cherry blossom season in Shimizu and Nagoya, Japan. The itineraries will also coincide with major cultural events including Chinese New Year celebrations onboard in January 2028, which will include themed entertainment and traditional festivities. “The introduction of Asia is a landmark moment for our brand and for our guests,” said Anna Nash, president of Explora Journeys. “It reflects not only our ambition to continually expand our horizons but also our deep respect for the cultural richness and natural beauty of this remarkable region.” Photo: Windstar Cruises SEVERAL CRUISE LINES WILL EXPAND THEIR PRESENCE IN ASIA IN 2027 Royal Caribbean International: Spectrum of the Seas (pictured above at Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore) will remain in the region, sailing four-, five- and eight-night itineraries from Baoshan in China, calling at ports in Japan including Okinawa, Ishigaki, Fukuoka, Kumamoto and Tokyo. Princess Cruises: Diamond Princess will homeport in Singapore from November 2026 to March 2027, sailing 11 itineraries visiting 28 destinations across eight countries. Norwegian Cruise Line: Norwegian Jade will return to Asia from October 2026 to April 2027, offering roundtrip voyages from Yokohama, Incheon, Hong Kong and Singapore, making maiden calls at Muara in Brunei and Jeju Island in South Korea. Windstar Cruises’ new vessel Star Seeker will sail itineraries in Southeast Asia in 2026
Major upgrades for Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore The UK Government, Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), and the UK Chamber of Shipping have partnered to launch the UK Cruise Growth Plan, an initiative aimed at strengthening the UK’s maritime and tourism sectors. The plan focuses on key areas, including workforce development, safety, security, accessibility and sustainable growth. It outlines commitments designed to encourage sustained private investment and increased collaboration to help responsibly grow the cruise sector. “This forward-looking plan provides a clear roadmap for the future of cruising in the UK,” said Andy Harmer OBE, managing director of CLIA UK & Ireland. “Its shared commitments will enhance safety, security, and accessibility in the industry, while its focus on investment and future skills will allow the UK to remain a leader in the international cruise market in the years to come. This agreement reflects years of partnership between industry and government, with a joint ambition: a thriving UK cruise sector that drives economic growth and benefits coastal communities in all four nations.” UK Cruise Growth Plan launched to strengthen maritime and tourism sectors MARKETWATCH 14 SATS-Creuers Cruise Services has completed a $40 million renovation project at Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore (MBCCS). The upgrades are designed to enhance passenger experience and strengthen the terminal’s capacity to handle growing cruise demand and simultaneous megaship calls. The company reorganised passenger flows through its existing two berths and created a new check-in hall with 70 counters and over 500 seats on Level 1. MBCCS also features a convertible bench-table system known as PortDeck to optimise space, operational efficiency and passenger comfort during peak travel periods. The new ground transport area features widened roadways, increased coach bays and an early baggage dropoff area, while a new advanced car park reservation system allows passengers to book spaces up to 60 days in advance at discounted rates. The terminal also offers baggage transfer services to all Singapore hotels and Changi Airport through a third-party provider. “By streamlining check-in, introducing early baggage drop-off, upgrading ground transport, and deploying innovative back-end systems, we are improving efficiency and convenience for passengers and cruise operators alike,” said Gregory Tan, CEO of SATS-Creuers.
Cruise visits to Kanazawa to rise 10 per cent in 2026 With a notable increase in maiden calls from AIDA Cruises, Ponant and Scenic Cruises among others, Kanazawa Port in Japan is set to welcome 55 cruise ships and around 75,000 passengers by the end of the 2025 cruise season. The port anticipates a 10 per cent rise in cruise calls for the 2026 season. This growth is predicted as the port prepares to reopen its Tomizu Wharf in April 2026, after the wharf’s full restoration from damage caused by the January 2024 earthquake. “To promote Kanazawa port’s deeply rooted cultural heritage, we have facilitated geigi (geisha) shows and Japanese drum performances onboard visiting ships as we believe the success of a port call depends on guest satisfaction,” said Shingo Sakano, director general of Kanazawa Port Authority. 15 Demand for ferry travel in the Mediterranean increased by more than 20 per cent among UK tourists and by 15 per cent among US travellers in summer 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, according to international booking data from Ferryhopper. The platform also reported strong year-on-year gains amongst European tourists, while demand in Australia held steady with a slight increase. Italy remained a top choice for international travellers with Sardinia and Corsica emerging as favourite destinations. Croatia also saw a sharp rise in bookings on the platform. This is consistent with Eurostat data showing a 5.5 per cent growth in international nights spent across European Union destinations for the second quarter of 2025, led by Spain, Italy and Greece. Ferry demand grows across UK, USA and European Union in 2025 Stena Line has signed a 50year agreement to assume full responsibility for operations at the ro-pax ferry terminal in Frederikshavn Harbour, Denmark, from September 2025. Swedish shipbuilder Candela will supply 10 electric hydrofoil ferries to Thai operator Seudamgo by Leopard Transportation Company for services between the mainland and Koh Kood in Thailand’s Trat province. SmartSea has installed the first interoperable automated passenger handling system in the Asia-Pacific region at Singapore Cruise Centre’s Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal. FERRY UPDATES +15% USA +20% UK +20% EU Rising tide: 20 per cent growth in year on year ferry demand across USA, UK and EU 2025 versus 2024 Source: Ferryhopper
Nestling in the South West of England, Dartmouth is the exceptional destination for your cruise itinerary. Mooring in the river your passengers are just a two-minute tender ride to the pontoon and we can tailor many itineraries for you. Including a tour around Britannia Royal Naval College Dartmouth, nature and history walking and paddling tours and a Vineyard Safari & Food Experience, to name but a few. No long coach rides needed to explore Dartmouth’s nature and historical heritage. For more information contact Richard: commercial@dartharbour.org | + 44 (0)1803 832337 Cruise Dartmouth – Your Undiscovered Gem ^ SHIPPING AGENCIA VIKING Ship agency services Port operations Chandlers and suppliers Authentic local experiences Committed to sustainability Your perfect partner for Cape Verde cruise “We know these islands, we care deeply about them, and we’re ready to deliver exceptional, responsible, and memorable experiences with professionalism, creativity, and genuine Cabo Verdean hospitality.” Adira Ferreira, Director of Tour Operations vikingcv.com For more than three decades, Shipping Agência Viking has provided services and experiences for cruise lines and their guests
17 MARKETWATCH AmaWaterways has ordered eight new river cruise vessels for its European fleet, scheduled for delivery by 2030. Chinese operator Century Cruises will offer itineraries onboard its first European river vessel, named Century Star, following the ship’s June 2026 delivery by Dutch shipbuilder Concordia Damen. Celebrity Cruises will offer 33 seven-night itineraries onboard Celebrity Compass on the Rhine and Danube in 2027. RIVER CRUISING NEWS First-ever paddlewheel cruises heading to River Seine CroisiEurope’s 81-guest paddlewheel ship, R.E. Waydelich L.J, will sail two new itineraries on the River Seine from 2026. The five-night ‘Little Gems of the Seine’ itinerary includes visits to the Île de la Cité, one of two natural islands in the Seine; Château de Fontainebleau, the former residence of kings and emperors; the gardens of Claude Monet in Giverny; and the village of La Roche-Guyon in northern France. Meanwhile, the seven-night ‘The History of France’ itinerary has been designed to offer passengers a blend of heritage, nature and art with visits to royal castles, Norman villages and historic cities. TUI River Cruises’ first newbuild, TUI Luzia, will sail the seven-night ‘Douro Discovery’ itinerary on Portugal’s River Douro from March to October 2027. TUI Luzia, which means ‘light’ in Portuguese, will sail roundtrip from Porto, visiting Entre-os-Rios, Peso de Regua, Vega de Terron (for Salamanca in Spain) and Barca d’Alva. River cruise operator Riviera Travel has selected a group of advisors to form its new North American Agent Advisory Board. The board includes Jenn Lee, president of TPI; Tara Minson, president of InteleTravel; Bill Coyle, vice president of agent engagement at KHM; Drew Daly, senior vice president and general manager of Dream Vacations/World Travel Holdings; Eric Maryanov, owner and president of All-Travel; and Anthony Hamawy, president of Cruise.com. The group will share insights and guidance with Riviera Travel’s executive team – including Phil Hullah, chief executive officer; Stuart Milan, president of North America; Marilyn Conroy, executive vice president of business development; and Eric Schmit, vice president of sales for North America – to support the brand’s future growth and expansion. Riviera Travel creates new North American advisory board
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19 Marella Cruises to visit new ports in Albania and Italy Seabourn Encore to make maiden Alaska debut in 2026 Marella Cruises will visit Sarandë in Albania and Syracuse in Italy for the first time in summer 2027. Marella Discovery 2 will call at the ports on the ‘Ionian Shores’ itinerary, which departs from Dubrovnik, Croatia. The ship will also sail Marella Cruises’ ‘Greek Mystique’ itinerary, calling at ports in the Greek islands, and the ‘Sail Three Seas’ itinerary, which sails the Aegean, Mediterranean and Adriatic seas. “We’re excited to expand our cruising destination portfolio with the introduction of fast-growing hotspots such as Sarandë in Albania,” said Chris Hackney, CEO of Marella Cruises. “Adding an Albanian port brings a fresh choice to the itinerary – it’s about offering guests something new which they’ll talk about long after the cruise ends. There’s a growing appetite for Albania for beach and city holidays and we’re leaning into that by exploring lesser-visited destinations. We’re always looking at how we can add new and lesser-known ports into our itineraries, so we expect this to continue in future.” Seabourn Encore will sail its first itineraries in Alaska and British Columbia from May to September 2026. Seabourn’s ultra-luxury ship will offer 17 seven-day and one eight-day cruises, which can be combined to make 14- or 15-day voyages. The itineraries have been designed to feature both iconic sites and hidden treasures. The ship will make marquee stops, such as Juneau and Ketchikan, alongside off-the-beatenpath destinations and passageways not accessible to larger ships, including Alert Bay and stretches of the Alaska and Canadian Inside Passage. “Alaska has always been one of our most requested destinations, and we’re excited to bring Seabourn Encore to the region for the very first time in 2026,” said Crystal Morgan, senior director of deployment and itinerary planning at Seabourn. “This is about meeting strong guest demand with one of our most celebrated ships. Seabourn Encore will be our only ship in Alaska that season, and we believe the timing is perfect to give travellers even more ways to experience the beauty of Alaska in true Seabourn style. An added advantage of bringing Seabourn Encore to Alaska is that it also allows us to offer voyages and more capacity in Japan during the spring and fall (before and after our Alaska season). It’s another destination where we are seeing strong interest from our guests.” MARKETWATCH
20 Cruise lines invest in private island portfolios Cruise lines are developing and upgrading their private island destinations to provide guests with carefully curated shoreside experiences Carnival Cruise Line opened its new $600 million private destination Celebration Key, located on the south side of Grand Bahama in The Bahamas in July 2025. It is the first time the cruise line has created a private island destination from scratch. Celebration Key has five areas for guests to explore, including Paradise Plaza, Starfish Lagoon – designed for families – Lokono Cove retail village, Calypso Lagoon and Pearl Cove Beach Club, the largest adults-only retreat at any cruise destination. Carnival predicts it will initially bring more than two million guests to Celebration Key per year but aims to bring four million annually by 2028. The cruise line also operates another private island destination, RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay, alongside partner Holland America Line. This private island is currently undergoing a series of developments, which will be gradually completed and opened from summer 2026 until the end of the year. Developments will include an expanded beachfront, additional lunch venues and bars, and a new pier on the north side of the destination to allow larger ships – such as Carnival’s Excel-class vessels – to dock for the first time. A new tram service will be introduced to improve travel around the island. Holland America Line guests will continue to call at the south side of the island, which will receive a smaller refresh. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is also upgrading Great Stirrup Cay, which opened in The Bahamas in 1977. In summer 2026, the cruise line will open an almost six-acre Great Tides Waterpark, which will feature 19 waterslides, an almost 800-foot dynamic river, a 9,000-square-foot splash zone for children and the industry’s first cliffside jumps, among other attractions. NCL hopes to bring one million guests sailing on 15 ships to Great Stirrup Cay in 2026. Also in The Bahamas, MSC Cruises plans to expand its private island, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, by adding a second berth. It will also create a second smaller island – currently nicknamed Little Cay – from dredged material which was added to an existing sandbank during works to widen the channel and turning basin to accommodate the cruise line’s new World-class ships. Unlike many other cruise line island destinations, Ocean Cay does not have a waterpark or rollercoaster; instead it offers guests the opportunity to partake in watersports, beach time or rejuvenating treatments at the spa. The island is also home to the MSC Foundation’s Marine Conservation Center, which will be a base for science and public education, as well as for the foundation’s coral restoration programme. Over the next three years Royal Caribbean Group will expand its portfolio of private island experiences, MARKETWATCH
which already includes Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas. The cruise brand will debut a new Royal Beach Club experience in December 2025 when it opens Royal Beach Club Paradise Island in Nassau in The Bahamas. It will also open two new destinations in Mexico – Royal Beach Club Cozumel in 2026 and Perfect Day Mexico in 2027. The latter will span more than 200 acres on Mexico’s Caribbean coast. Royal Caribbean Group is also developing a destination in Labadee, Haiti, which is scheduled to welcome cruise guests from 2027. In addition, the company will open the first exclusive island cruise destination in the Southern Hemisphere in 2027. Lelepa will be located on an archipelago in the South Pacific off the east of Australia and will offer a locally inspired experience for guests in Australia and beyond, complete with serene beaches, nature trails, water activities and regionally inspired dining venues. 21 MSC Cruises hopes to expand Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve with the addition of a second berth and a smaller island, while Norwegian Cruise Line will open the almost six-acre Great Tides Waterpark on Great Stirrup Cay in The Bahamas (pictured below) in summer 2026, featuring 19 waterslides
22 MARKETWATCH Cruise lines take advantage of boom in golf tourism According to Future Market Insights’ 2025 Golf Tourism Market Analysis, the global golf tourism market is projected to reach a market value of $65.8 billion by 2035, highlighting the increasing appeal of golf-related travel experiences. With more cruise passengers looking for experiences suited to their interests, the popularity of golf cruises looks set to rise. Luxury golf tour operator PerryGolf and Azamara Cruises are well-positioned to take advantage of the boom in golf tourism due to their long-term partnership. Many golf cruise programmes are already set for 2026, covering New Zealand and Australia, the UK and Ireland, Vietnam, Hong Kong and Japan; the Mediterranean, the Baltic Sea and the Caribbean. River operators have also been expanding river golf cruise programming for 2026. AmaWaterways has extended its ‘concierge golf programme’ to a second destination following the success of its Danube cruise on AmaMagna. In August 2026, guests on AmaDante will be able to play five top French courses, including Le Golf National, which hosted the 2018 Ryder Cup, as part of the ‘Impressions of the Seine & Paris’ sailing. Another luxury river cruise line that has announced a dedicated golf cruise for 2026 is Amadeus River Cruises. Amadeus Aurea will sail in June 2026 on its ‘Golf Cruise on the Rhine’ itinerary and, in addition to exploring European cities like Strasbourg, Cologne and Amsterdam, guests will be able to play golf at top French and German courses, take in views of the Upper Middle Rhine Valley and see Reichsburg Cochem. Other cruise lines have taken steps into the golf cruise sector, with Regent Seven Seas Cruises sailing a 14-night ‘Spotlight Voyage’ around the UK and Ireland in June 2025. Annika Sörenstam, regarded as one of the best female golfers of all time, was the headline host of the excursion, which included rounds at six prestigious courses, including Trump Turnberry in Scotland and Portstewart in Northern Ireland. And in July 2025, Riverside Luxury Cruises launched a cruise dedicated to golf with the Riverside Mozart ship taking golf-loving cruisers from Vienna, Austria, along the Danube to Budapest, Hungary.
23 DATES FOR YOUR DIARY Cruise Lines International Association European Summit 2026 23-26 February Funchal, Madeira www.cruising.org/events/clia-europeansummit Seatrade Cruise Global 13-16 April 2026 Miami, Florida, USA www.seatradecruiseevents.com/global Shippax Ferry Conference 5-7 May 2026 Grandi Navi Veloci’s Rhapsody, Italy www.shippaxferryconference.com Cruise Europe Conference 26-28 May 2026 Reykjavik, Iceland www.cruiseeurope.com Poisidonia Sea Tourism Summit 2026 1-5 June 2026 Athens, Greece www.posidoniaseatourism.com 68th MedCruise General Assembly 9-12 June 2026 Palermo, Italy www.medcruise.com Seatrade Cruise Med 23-24 September 2026 Las Palmas, Spain www.seatradecruiseevents.com/med Interferry Conference 31 October-4 November 2026 Bangkok, Thailand www.interferry.com The 15th edition of the International Cruise Summit will take place from 18-19 November 2025 at Hotel Meliá Castilla in Madrid, Spain. The two-day event is curated by CruiseNews Media Group to provide a platform for industry leaders, innovators and stakeholders to collaborate, share insights and shape the future of the cruise industry. It offers attendees an array of presentations, panels and networking events, where they can discuss industry trends, initiatives and challenges. The 24th Coastlink Conference, hosted by Associated British Ports (ABP), will take place in the Humber region of the UK from 6-7 May 2026. The twoday event will feature expert-led sessions and panel discussions focused on the future of short-sea shipping and multimodal operations. There will also be networking opportunities and the chance to discuss future market opportunities and the economic and environmental challenges facing the industry as it looks to build a sustainable future. “We’ve got a lot to showcase – from our historic service capabilities to the forthcoming uplift in infrastructure we’re deploying,” said Andrew Dawes, regional director of the Humber at ABP. International Cruise Summit 2025 18-19 November 2025 | Madrid, Spain Coastlink 2026 heads to The Humber 6-7 May 2026 | Humber, UK
COVER STORY Atlantic Canada is defined by rugged coastlines, charming coastal cities and a deep sense of history. The Canadian provinces of Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island combine dramatic natural scenery and warm maritime hospitality. Visitors can hike along towering sea cliffs, sample locally inspired cuisine by the waterfront, or stroll the cobblestone streets of Halifax and St. John’s. Across the region, travellers will find communities full of culture woven into the rhythm of coastal life. In summer, ports across the region host music, art and celebrations – from dockside concerts and cultural festivals to open-air markets and seaside stages – energising waterfronts from Newfoundland and Labrador to Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick. Each province tells its own story – from centuries-old architecture and harbour towns to the birthplace of Confederation in Charlottetown and the historic ports of Halifax, Saint John, and St. John’s. Visitors can sample the region’s culinary scene, where fresh seafood and farm-to-table ingredients reflect Atlantic Canada’s bounty – particularly on Prince Edward Island, often described as ‘Canada’s Food Atlantic Canada is calling Famed for its autumnal beauty, Atlantic Canada is ready for its day in the summer sun. Alex Smith explores how the region offers a valuable opportunity for cruise lines and an unforgettable experience for their guests 24 Covehead Lighthouse, Prince Edward Island
25 Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, captivates visitors with its dramatic highland scenery Island’. Landscapes here draw European comparisons: St. John’s Jellybean Row recalls Reykjavik’s colourful facades, Halifax hints at Edinburgh by the sea, Prince Edward Island’s rolling countryside and seaside cliffs mirror Ireland and Scotland, and both the Cape Breton Highlands and Gros Morne National Park in western Newfoundland rival Norway’s fjords. Discovering Atlantic Canada’s many islands and coastlines by ship provides a uniquely scenic perspective of these landmarks. The region features many ports that are equipped to receive cruise ships, including Charlottetown in Prince Edward Island, Sydney in Cape Breton Island, Halifax in Nova Scotia, Saint John in New Brunswick, and Corner Brook and St. John’s in Newfoundland and Labrador. These destinations have committed to continued growth by making investments in the infrastructure necessary to accommodate cruise lines and their guests. “For decades, ports across Atlantic Canada have invested steadily in upgrading dockside infrastructure, including new berths, tendering facilities, gangways and bollards,” says Sarah Rumley, executive director at Cruise Atlantic Canada, a regional partnership supporting the sustainable growth of cruise in the region. “Notably, the Port of Halifax was the first port on Canada’s East Coast to provide shore power, enabling ships to connect while
twitter.com/tourismpei instagram.com/tourismpei youtube.com/tourismpei Discover the authentic experiences and endless possibilities of Prince Edward Island. This picturesque island on Canada’s east coast makes for a memorable port of call. Passengers and crew can experience some of the best seafood, immerse themselves in the cultural landscape of the world renowned novel “Anne of Green Gables” and explore the natural beauty of the Island’s National Park. One amazing Island. Endless possibilities. ExplorePEI.com Come find your Island
27 COVER STORY alongside. These investments are made in close collaboration with cruise lines, marine agents, and other stakeholders to ensure facilities meet the needs of today’s operations while preparing for the future.” These destinations attract many cruise guests, who traditionally flock to the region during its autumn cruise season. Voyages to Atlantic Canada operate from major homeports and turnaround ports including Canada’s Montréal and Quebec City, and Boston, New York, Bayonne, and Baltimore in the United States. The USA ports of Norfolk and Philadelphia are also emerging as potential turnaround hubs for seasonal deployment while Halifax and St. John’s provide turnaround services to select luxury and expedition brands, hosting about 10 full or partial turnarounds each season. Yet these facilities see much less traffic in summer, when lines redeploy their vessels to keep up with demand for voyages in the Caribbean or Mediterranean. This presents an opportunity in Atlantic Canada for cruise lines looking to capture untapped demand outside more crowded markets in the summer. “With ample berth availability and less congestion across all major port cities, along with strong homeporting and turnaround options in Boston, New York, Quebec and Montréal, cruise lines can deploy with confidence, knowing ships and guests are fully accommodated,” says Rumley. “This positions Canada New England as a compelling strategic alternative to the crowded Caribbean during the summer months.” Atlantic Canada’s six full-time marine facilities are all authorised disembarkation sites for travellers and crews of all types of cruise ships. Arrivals are supported by the Atlantic Pilotage Authority, whose marine pilots are experienced in the diverse waters of the region. “This coordinated approach supports both portside logistics and the guest experience onshore,” says Rumley. But logistics are only one reason for cruise lines to consider a summer itinerary here. For guests, Canada New England feels like discovering a ‘Northern Caribbean’ experience: warm summer days are paired with refreshing sea breezes, the scent of salt air, and coastlines lined with beaches, lighthouses and lively harbours. The season offers a chance to explore welcoming coastal communities, soak up natural scenery and enjoy a cooler climate that still provides a sun-and-sea atmosphere. A summer cruise in Atlantic Canada could set off from Quebec City and visit ports like Charlottetown, Sydney, Halifax, and Saint John and conclude in Boston. “These open-jaw sailings benefit from strong airlift, pre- and postcruise experiences, efficient scheduling, and available summer capacity, all while offering guests a comprehensive introduction to Atlantic Canada,” says Rumley. A longer sailing, meanwhile, might depart from Boston or New York and combine calls in Halifax, Charlottetown, Saint John and Sydney with a stop in Bermuda – pairing Atlantic Canada’s cool climate with a popular warmweather destination. On the other hand, a voyage from Montréal could visit Corner Brook and St. John’s in Newfoundland and Labrador before extending over to Greenland, Iceland and Northern Europe, creating an itinerary that differentiates itself from summer’s more saturated markets. “Atlantic Canada can serve as a springboard for longer explorations, offering cruise lines deployment flexibility, summer growth opportunities, and a distinctive product in the marketplace,” says Rumley. Prince Edward Island is often described as ‘Canada’s Food Island’ “ Canada New England is a compelling strategic alternative to the crowded Caribbean during the summer”
28 Atlantic Canada offers a range of guest experiences, from tranquil coastal escapes to thrilling sea adventures. The region is also home to remarkable Parks Canada sites and Unesco World Heritage landmarks, including Signal Hill in Newfoundland and Labrador, Cape Breton Highlands National Park in Nova Scotia, and Fundy National Park in New Brunswick – each showcasing the area’s natural beauty and cultural significance. “Guests can enjoy coastal adventures like whale watching, kayaking and hiking, or they can relax on award-winning beaches like Prince Edward Island’s Basin Head, known for the unique sound of its famous ‘Singing Sands,’ and some of the warmest waters north of Florida,” says Rumley. The summer months are filled with festivals and community celebrations in Atlantic Canada. Guests can celebrate the region’s Celtic and Acadian roots and engage with Mi’kmaq cultural experiences. Music, food and heritage events reflect the diversity of the region’s cultures. “This blend of outdoor adventure and cultural enrichment allows cruise lines to promote Atlantic Canada as a summer destination that offers both memorable activities and meaningful community connections,” says Rumley. Cruise Atlantic Canada can help cruise lines develop summer itineraries in the region with streamlined access to a wide network of ports, tourism partners and government agencies. The association also provides insights into seasonal opportunities and information on port infrastructure, berth availability and shore excursion options. The association takes a coordinated industry approach by collaborating closely with the Cruise Canada New England Alliance and some of the most popular US homeports. Customised familiarisation tours for cruise executives provide first-hand insight into the region’s capabilities and guest experiences. “Cruise Atlantic Canada acts as the connector,” says Rumley. “By managing these relationships, the association helps cruise lines navigate the planning process efficiently and ensures stakeholders remain aligned in supporting deployment. The resources we provide position Cruise Atlantic Canada as both a practical and strategic partner for cruise lines considering new or expanded deployment.” Atlantic Canada isn’t a one-season destination; its infrastructure and port capacity give it significant potential beyond the autumn peak. The region’s ports offer berth availability and straightforward operations, supported by a temperate summer climate that avoids the congestion of hotter destinations. For cruise operators, this presents a valuable opportunity to diversify itineraries and reduce reliance on congested markets. “Canada New England offers the perfect balance between smooth, reliable operations for cruise lines and a refreshing, world-class coastal escape for guests,” says Rumley. Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park, located on the Bay of Fundy, New Brunswick COVER STORY
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