Key Updates from the Cruise Industry in September 2024

September 2024 was a dynamic month for the cruise industry, marked by the conclusion of Royal Caribbean International’s nine-month viral world cruise and a host of new announcements affecting future travel. This month saw several cruise lines, including Princess Cruises, Azamara, and Seabourn, announce additional sailings timed with the August 2026 total solar eclipse, capitalizing on the growing demand for themed cruises.

Royal Caribbean’s Serenade of the Seas made headlines as it completed its extensive global journey, which covered 160 destinations. The cruise, notable for its length and the online buzz it created, ended with passengers disembarking in Miami on September 10.

In other major news, Viking has resumed operations in China, marking a significant return with the Viking Yi Dun sailing from Shanghai to Hong Kong. This expansion signals Viking’s renewed focus on Asia, with plans to introduce new itineraries in Japan next year.

Carnival Cruise Line provided a preview of the food and drink offerings at its soon-to-open Celebration Key, a private destination on Grand Bahama set to welcome guests in July 2025. The site will feature over 30 venues, enhancing Carnival’s guest experience with a variety of dining options.

Avalon Waterways celebrated a milestone with 2024 becoming its strongest sales year ever and bookings for 2025 already surpassing the current year by more than 50 percent. Additionally, the cruise industry witnessed the launch of the Explora II, which was christened before setting sail from Civitavecchia, Italy.

A significant executive change was announced as Kelly Craighead, president and CEO of Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), revealed her plans to step down at the end of the year.

Disney Cruise Line’s Disney Treasure achieved a construction milestone this month, progressing towards its debut in December after moving from the Meyer Werft shipyard in Germany for sea trials.

Riviera River Cruises announced the launch of a new ship, Riviera Resplendence, set to debut in 2026 to meet the strong demand for European river cruising. They also updated their cancellation policy to favor travel advisors, ensuring full commission if clients cancel within 15 days of departure.

Norwegian Cruise Line introduced the Norwegian Luna, a Prima Plus Class vessel, which will feature a unique hull art by ELLE and is scheduled to begin sailing from Miami in April 2026.

The cruise industry also focused on enhancing travel advisor engagement, with over 300 advisors from the U.S. and Canada participating in a familiarization trip aboard Hurtigruten Expeditions’ MS Fridtjof Nansen and learning about Carnival’s Celebration Key.

Moreover, Norwegian Cruise Line announced a Prince tribute show, “Revolution: A Celebration of Prince,” set to debut on the Norwegian Aqua in April 2025, celebrating the music legend’s iconic works.

Lastly, Virgin Voyages introduced wedding services, with Sir Richard Branson officiating three weddings as part of the launch. Meanwhile, Quark Expeditions expanded its offerings with new flightseeing excursions in the Canadian Arctic and an innovative helicopter tour over Antarctica.

These developments underline the cruise industry’s continued evolution and its commitment to providing diverse, enriching experiences to travelers around the globe.