Key Cruise Industry News Highlights from October 2024
October 2024 brought a flurry of significant updates from the cruise industry, marking notable achievements and exciting developments.
Travel Industry 40 Under 40 Honorees
TravelPulse unveiled its inaugural Travel Industry 40 Under 40 list, recognizing young professionals making significant contributions to the sector. Notable cruise leaders included Jazzmine Douse from AmaWaterways, Jerry A. Estrada Jr. from Carnival Cruise Line, Christina Falcone from Celebrity Cruises, Katie Kania from Norwegian Cruise Line, and Rebecca Stacey from National Geographic Lindblad Expeditions.
Silversea’s New Hotel for Antarctic Cruises
Silversea is constructing a new 150-room hotel in Puerto Williams, Chile, the world’s southernmost city, to support its Antarctic voyages. The project, in collaboration with Chilean investors, is expected to be completed by late 2025. Bert Hernandez, president of Silversea, highlighted the hotel’s role in enhancing their luxury expedition offerings.
CDC’s Cleanest Cruise Ships of 2024
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) revealed the cleanest cruise ships of 2024 after inspecting over 100 vessels. Standouts included Carnival Spirit, Viking Orion, Seabourn Odyssey, and Norwegian Jewel, recognized for their exemplary cleanliness.
Disney Treasure Nears Launch
Disney Cruise Line’s newest ship, Disney Treasure, is closer to its debut on December 21, 2024. The cruise line received the ship from Meyer Werft shipyard in Germany, marking an exciting addition to its fleet.
Norwegian Cruise Line Supports Hurricane Relief
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. announced an $80,000 donation to aid communities affected by Hurricanes Milton and Helene, contributing to the American Red Cross’s relief efforts.
Carnival Cruise Line Hits Major Milestone
Carnival Cruise Line celebrated 7 million travelers sailing from New Orleans, with Thomas and Julie Litteral becoming the milestone passengers onboard Carnival Valor.
Launch of Viva Boutique
Viva Cruises introduced a new premium brand, Viva Boutique, with the first ship, Viva Beyond, set to debut on the Seine River in May 2026.
New Private Destination for Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean International revealed plans for a new private destination in Mexico, Perfect Day Mexico, located in Mahahual and inspired by their existing private island in the Bahamas. It is scheduled to open in 2027.
Viking Expands Fleet
Viking signed a contract with Fincantieri for two new cruise ships to be delivered in 2030, with options for four additional vessels in 2031 and 2032.
Carnival President’s Skydiving Fundraiser
Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line, went skydiving to raise over $85,000 for hurricane relief, showcasing her commitment to supporting affected communities.
AmaWaterways’ Soulful Experience Sailings
AmaWaterways announced four new itineraries for Black travelers in 2025, featuring destinations like the Nile River, Provence, Douro, and Colombia, responding to growing demand for cultural experiences.
Royal Caribbean Increases Gratuity Rates
Effective November 1, Royal Caribbean announced an increase in crew gratuity charges, raising fees for suite guests to $21 and other cabin categories to $18.50 per person per day.
These updates reflect the dynamic nature of the cruise industry as it continues to innovate and adapt to changing traveler preferences.
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