Love Cruising? Here's What You May Have Missed Last Year

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Cruising into the new year, the world of luxury liners, exciting itineraries, and transformative technology is evolving at sea. From new ships and eco-friendly innovations to destination highlights, here’s your roundup of the latest and greatest in cruise-related news. Let’s set sail!

Table of Contents

1. Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas Sets Sail

Royal Caribbean

The highly anticipated Icon of the Seas, the largest cruise ship ever built, has officially begun its maiden voyages. Offering a blend of high-tech features, luxury amenities, and family-focused entertainment, it’s designed to redefine cruising for the 21st century.

2. Disney Treasure Welcomes Families to Enchanting Adventures

The Grand Hall will embody the Disney Treasure’s theme of adventure, with statues and décor that call on the gilded palace and wonder of Agrabah from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ classic tale, “Aladdin.” The space will serve as the ship’s most prominent gathering space and will offer its own dedicated entertainment moments and surprises. — Kent Phillips,

Disney Cruise Line’s latest ship, the Disney Treasure, launched this month, boasting immersive storytelling experiences themed around beloved Disney tales. The ship includes a Lion King-themed dinner show and a Peter Pan-inspired adventure club for kids.

3. Carnival Jubilee Joins the LNG-Powered Fleet

Carnival Cruise Line’s newest addition, the Carnival Jubilee, hit the seas, marking another milestone in eco-friendly cruising. Powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), the ship is Carnival’s third LNG-powered vessel, designed to reduce its carbon footprint.

4. Viking Cruises Introduces Its 100th River Cruise Ship

Viking Cruises celebrated the christening of its 100th river cruise ship, Viking Njord, in a lavish ceremony in Amsterdam. The new vessel expands their European routes and introduces enhanced cultural immersion experiences onboard.

5. Norwegian Prima Adds Unique Dining Experiences

Norwegian Cruise Line has expanded its Prima-class fleet, featuring new dining experiences such as interactive sushi-making classes and a rooftop food market, catering to the growing trend of culinary tourism.

6. MSC World America Promises Bigger and Greener Voyages

The new MSC World America, launching soon, aims to offer U.S.-focused itineraries while championing sustainability with advanced waste management and energy-efficient designs.

7. Expedition Cruises Gain Popularity

Luxury expedition cruise lines like Silversea Expeditions and Mundy report a surge in bookings as travelers seek adventure in remote destinations, from Antarctica to the Arctic.

8. Celebrity Ascent Unveiled

Celebrity Cruises debuted its latest ship, the Celebrity Ascent, which features stunning infinite verandas and the unique Magic Carpet—a cantilevered platform that transforms throughout the day.

9. Regent Seven Seas Offers $11,000-per-Night Suite

The ultra-luxury Regent Seven Seas Grandeur Suite has captured headlines as one of the most lavish accommodations at sea. With a private spa and concierge service, it’s redefining opulence.

10. Royal Caribbean Tests Starlink Internet

Improved connectivity is here! Royal Caribbean is rolling out SpaceX’s Starlink internet service across its fleet, offering passengers lightning-fast Wi-Fi, perfect for remote workers at sea.

11. Virgin Voyages Launches Adults-Only Cruise Escapes

Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady Sailing — Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages’ Resilient Lady continues to redefine cruising with chic, adults-only sailings featuring wellness programming, drag brunches, and cutting-edge entertainment.

12. Cunard Celebrates 100 Years of World Cruising

Marking its centenary, Cunard has released an exclusive world cruise itinerary, retracing the inaugural journey of the Laconia in 1923.

13. Royal Caribbean Group Reports Record-Breaking Sales

Despite challenges, Royal Caribbean Group announced an all-time high in cruise bookings during Black Friday, signaling strong post-pandemic demand.

14. Holland America Marks 150 Years

In a historic milestone, Holland America Line is celebrating its 150th anniversary with special voyages and onboard commemorative events.

15. New Culinary Cruise with Michelin-Star Chefs

Top view of a gourmet dish with vibrant edible flowers, served on a minimalist plate. — ROMAN ODINTSOV

A collaboration between Windstar Cruises and top Michelin-star chefs has led to bespoke itineraries featuring exclusive onboard culinary experiences.

16. Crystal Cruises Resurfaces Post-Restructuring

After a brief hiatus, Crystal Cruises is back with newly refurbished ships and enhanced service offerings, retaining its legacy of luxury.

17. Expedition Focus: River Cruising in the Amazon

A peaceful waterfall cascades amidst lush forest with beams of sunlight streaming through, creating a tranquil scene. — Photo by Mikhail Nilov

New itineraries in the Amazon are drawing eco-tourists seeking authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences. Lines like Aqua Expeditions lead the charge.

18. Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay Adds Thrill Waterpark

Royal Caribbean continues to expand its private island offerings with the Perfect Day at CocoCay, adding a massive thrill waterpark for families.

19. Azamara Adds Extended Stays in Exotic Ports

Known for immersive travel, Azamara Cruises is rolling out extended port stays, allowing passengers to experience nightlife and cultural festivals.

20. Luxury River Cruises in Africa on the Rise

River cruise operators like AmaWaterways have introduced African river routes, including trips on the Chobe River paired with land safaris.