Cruise News: Top Stories From September
Cruise News: Top Stories From September
As more and more international destinations lift coronavirus-related travel restrictions, cruise lines around the world have continued to bounce back as demand returns.
From companies adding and expanding itineraries to cruise lines adding new ships and destinations, the industry devastated by the COVID-19 pandemic is now thriving again.
Add in the fact that the 2022 Travvy Awards are celebrating the industry, companies are bringing back pre-pandemic events and activities and cruise lines are bolstering fleets, and now is a great time to book a cruise adventure.
Cruise lines made major waves over the last month, and here are the top cruise stories from September.
Hurricane Ian Impacted Cruise Lines
Several major cruise lines serving the Caribbean from Florida were forced to reroute and cancel sailings due to Hurricane Ian, including Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line and Disney Cruise Line.
American Travelers Are Craving Cruises Again
The findings of a recent InsureMyTrip survey suggest that cruising is coming back in a big way, revealing that the overwhelming majority of U.S. travelers are planning to take a cruise within the next two years. It also suggested they’re not waiting for the traditional “wave season” to arrive before they book those voyages.
AmaWaterways Unveils Its Longest-Ever River Cruise
Leading luxury river cruise line AmaWaterways opened reservations for its groundbreaking 2024 Seven River Journey – Spring and Summer Editions. Guests will sail the entire 49-night itinerary aboard a single ship—the award-winning AmaMora— while exploring 15 European countries.
Disney Cruise Line Announces New Ship Name
Disney Cruise Line received its own special spotlight at D23 in Anaheim, California, with the announcement of the cruise line’s newest ship name – the Disney Treasure – new ports for the Disney Wonder beginning in October 2023 and an update on DCL’s newest private island – Lighthouse Point.
Viking Confirms Four More Cruise Ships
Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri will build four more cruise ships for Viking, with the third and fourth ships due in 2026 and 2027. Contracts also were signed for the fifth and sixth ships, subject to financing, for delivery in 2028. The deal is valued at about €1.7 billion.
Princess Cruises Reveals New Ship Details
Princess Cruises announced its first new Sphere-class cruise ship would be named Sun Princess, accommodate over 4,000 guests and boast stunning views, innovative entertainment venues, multi-story dining rooms and next-level stateroom accommodations.
MSC Cruises Reveals Entertainment Options for World Europa
MSC Cruises announced a series of entertainment options to complement the new World Europa’s innovative design and cutting-edge technology, including three new concert-style shows in the multipurpose Luna Park Arena, five new full-scale theatre productions in the World Theatre, four themed experiences in the Panorama Lounge and pop-up live exhibits throughout the ship.
Margaritaville at Sea Offering Free Cruises to People Who Serve
Margaritaville at Sea announced it would offer free cruises to active and veteran military service members, first responders, law enforcement officers and educators. The cruise line launched the Heroes Sail Free fare discount program on September 7, which is applied at checkout or by clicking “View Pricing by Guests.”
Carnival Cruise Line Implements Curfew for Minors
Carnival Cruise Line has enacted a new change to its Minor Guest Policy, implementing a fleetwide curfew for children aged 17 and under, a step it has taken to curb disturbances caused by minors.
Norwegian Cruise Line Reveals Partnership With Coca-Cola
Norwegian Cruise Line has announced a new beverage partnership with iconic drink brand Coca-Cola. Norwegian Prima will be the first in the company’s 18-ship fleet to carry Coca-Cola as its official soft drink. The cruise line’s remaining vessels will have the products by the end of December.
Canada to Lift Coronavirus-Related Restrictions for Cruise Lines
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced the government would end coronavirus-related vaccination, testing and quarantine requirements for international travelers on October 1, including pre-departure testing and vaccination mandates for the cruise industry.