Author: Shawon Hannan

In May 2024, MSC Cruises experienced a significant increase in onboard bookings, highlighting the effectiveness of their engagement strategies.This remarkable growth was primarily driven by the MSC Future Cruise Programme, fostering customer loyalty through enticing benefits.Remarkable Growth in Onboard BookingsMSC Cruises has reported an astounding 160% increase in onboard bookings for May 2024, attributed to its innovative Future Cruise Programme. This surge reflects the growing confidence of UK and Irish travellers in the brand’s offerings, leading to significant engagement from their onboard experiences.The programme has effectively harnessed the potential of customer loyalty by offering exclusive benefits such as reduced deposits,…

Newmarket Holidays is expanding its European offerings with two new escorted tours in the Adriatic region, focusing on island-hopping and historic city visits.The new tours promise remarkable experiences, from sailing on the MS Equator to discovering the unique cultural tapestry woven through historic cities like Dubrovnik, Neum, and Mostar.Newmarket Holidays has introduced an exciting eight-day tour titled Croatian Island Hopping, featuring a voyage on the 18-cabin MS Equator. This journey offers a blend of leisure and exploration, with highlights including a walking tour and wine-tasting event in Korčula. Guests can also enjoy guided tours of famed ancient cities such as…

Regent Seven Seas Cruises is set to redefine luxury cruising with its new Prestige class vessels. With advanced features and unprecedented space, these ships promise an ultimate travel experience.Heralding a new era in luxury sea travel, the Seven Seas Prestige will launch in 2026, offering a blend of elegance and comfort unmatched in the cruise industry.Regent Seven Seas Cruises has marked a significant milestone with the announcement of two new ships, slated to join its esteemed fleet within the next five years. The first of these, Seven Seas Prestige, is projected to make its debut in 2026, heralding the introduction…

Last year marked a pivotal recovery phase for MSC Cruises, as passenger numbers surged to over four million, nearly doubling from 2022. This growth signifies a promising recovery within the cruise industry, driven by strategic deployments and enhanced service offerings across MSC’s fleet.Rising Passenger NumbersIn 2023, MSC Cruises recorded a substantial increase in passenger numbers, almost doubling its figures from the previous year to over four million across its fleet of 22 ships. This dramatic rise from 2.1 million in 2022 was attributed to a low base the previous year due to recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic. Additionally, the introduction…

Gold Medal has announced the creation of three new trade sales roles as part of a strategic expansion effort. This move aims to enhance its market influence and strengthen trade partnerships.With two appointments already in place, the company continues its commitment to excellence and industry leadership, paving the way for a bright future.Expansion of Trade Sales TeamGold Medal has amplified its trade sales force by introducing three additional roles, a strategic move to bolster their market presence. With two of these roles successfully filled, the company showcases its intent to strengthen trade partnerships across different regions of the United Kingdom.During…

Viking has entered into a new agreement with Fincantieri to build two additional ocean cruise ships, marking a significant development in their ongoing partnership. The deal reflects the continuous growth and recovery of the cruise market in the wake of the pandemic.Contracts have been finalised between Viking and the Italian shipyard, Fincantieri, to construct two new ocean cruise ships. These vessels, each with a capacity to accommodate 998 passengers, are projected for completion and delivery by 2028 and 2029, respectively. The financial details of this agreement, although not disclosed, are considered to be substantial.Viking’s expanding fleet highlights its strategic focus…

Regent Seven Seas Cruises is poised to redefine luxury cruising with the introduction of its new Prestige-Class vessels. The first ship, Seven Seas Prestige, will debut in 2026, offering unmatched passenger space and elegance.This new class marks a decade since the last ship series, bringing fresh innovations and ultra-luxurious amenities that promise to enhance the travel experience for guests. Significant upgrades and new offerings are central to this launch.Introduction of the Prestige-Class VesselsRegent Seven Seas Cruises is set to debut a revolutionary class of cruise ships in 2026 with the launch of the Seven Seas Prestige, marking a significant milestone…

Kuoni is evaluating a four-day work week for its retail staff, aiming to bolster talent acquisition.In pursuit of being a progressive employer, the travel agency is inspired by successful implementations in other sectors.Considering a Four-Day Work WeekKuoni is actively exploring the implementation of a four-day working week for its retail staff as part of a broader strategy to attract and retain top talent within the travel industry. This move aligns with practices observed in major non-travel retail sectors, which have already embraced or are trialling this innovative work model. The travel agency aims to enhance its position as a progressive…

Inclusive travel for disabled individuals remains a major challenge in the industry. While progress has been made, significant barriers persist.Leading voices like Richard Thompson advocate for change, highlighting both the limitations and the potential within the industry.The Overlooked Market of Disabled TravellersThe travel industry faces criticism for consistently overlooking disabled travellers, an issue highlighted by inclusive travel entrepreneur Richard Thompson. He argues that fear and lack of understanding prevent operators from adequately catering to the needs of these individuals. This neglect results in disabled travellers being excluded from mainstream travel options, thus missing out on experiences that are readily available…

Emma McClarkin appointed as the new chair of the UK Tourism Alliance.Industry leaders urge the government to acknowledge tourism’s economic value.The Tourism Alliance emphasises the need for supportive policies.”Realising the Potential” manifesto outlines growth strategies.Cross-government cooperation is essential to advance the sector.Emma McClarkin, the chief executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, has stepped into the role of chair at the UK Tourism Alliance. She succeeds Tom Jenkins from the European travel association Etoa, marking a significant leadership transition within the organisation.Key industry figures advocate for government recognition and backing of Britain’s tourism sector. New initiatives are spotlighted to…