Author: News Team

A surge in extreme weather conditions has sparked wildfires and home evacuations in Cyprus and Greece.Paphos in Cyprus faces extreme heat with temperatures rising to 45°C, prompting evacuations due to wildfires.Greece has dispatched firefighting planes to Cyprus while dealing with its heat warning and a 4.9 magnitude earthquake.The Greek weather service has issued its inaugural summer heat warning with temperatures hitting up to 43°C.Tourist spots in Greece, like the Acropolis, have closed due to heat, as wildfires remain a significant threat.As temperatures soar to an extreme 45°C in Paphos, Cyprus finds itself grappling with severe wildfires that have forced residents…

The expedition cruise sector has identified the growth of the UK market as a central concern for 2024. This insight stems from a survey conducted by the Expedition Cruise Network, highlighting an upward trend in demand for varied cruise experiences.The survey, part of the network’s biannual review, gathered data from 12 of its 23 members. These members reported increasing interest in extended cruises, group travel, and premium experiences, setting the stage for strategic advancements in the coming year.A recent survey by the Expedition Cruise Network reveals that enhancing the UK market is now an emphatic focus for 2024. Members shared…

The keel laying ceremony for Celebrity Cruises’ latest vessel, Celebrity Xcel, signifies a pivotal development in the company’s Edge-series. Held at Chantiers de l’Atlantique in France, this event marks the commencement of construction on the fifth Edge-class ship, which aims to redefine luxury cruising.Scheduled to debut in November 2025, Celebrity Xcel is set to embark on seven-night itineraries throughout the Caribbean. This addition highlights the brand’s continuous innovation, featuring a tri-fuel engine that supports the company’s sustainability objectives. The ceremony drew notable figures from the maritime and cruise industry.The significant keel laying ceremony, a time-honoured maritime tradition, took place at…

Jet2 has announced its intention to legally pursue a passenger responsible for causing significant disruption on a flight from Glasgow to Tenerife.Following an unruly incident, the aircraft was diverted to Shannon Airport, resulting in substantial costs, which Jet2 seeks to recover.On a recent flight from Glasgow to Tenerife, a passenger exhibited disruptive and aggressive behaviour, which necessitated an unscheduled landing. The flight was diverted to Shannon Airport for the removal and arrest of the disruptive individual by Garda officers. This action was imperative due to the escalating aggressive conduct of the 20-year-old man.Jet2 is determined to recover all costs associated…

The Explora II has reached an important developmental stage by successfully completing its sea trials, signifying readiness for passenger service.This second vessel from Explora Journeys will commence its maiden journey in August, offering a luxury cruising experience.Completion of Sea TrialsThe Explora II has successfully concluded its sea trials, marking a critical milestone in its journey towards entering service. Conducted in the Mediterranean Sea, these trials tested the ship’s speed, maneuverability, and on-board systems. The vessel’s performance met the stringent standards set by Explora Journeys and the shipbuilder, validating its readiness for passenger operations.Construction at Fincantieri ShipyardLocated in Italy, the Fincantieri…

JG Travel Group has responded to an extraordinary demand by adding an additional date to the farewell tour of acclaimed ice-skating duo Torvill & Dean.The popularity of the tour, celebrating 50 years of Torvill & Dean’s artistic achievements, has made it the top-selling package among travel agents in the UK.Torvill & Dean’s Farewell Tour SuccessThe legendary ice-skating duo Torvill & Dean have once again captivated audiences with their final tour, marking a significant milestone in their 50-year-long career. The exceptional response from fans led to the JG Travel Group adding an extra date to their itinerary, reflecting the enduring popularity…

Cunard is offering four new opportunities for travel agents to explore their ships, enhancing the agents’ understanding of the cruise experience.With exclusive visits scheduled in Southampton, agents will have the chance to tour the iconic fleet, including the newly introduced Queen Anne.Cunard has unveiled additional ship visit dates for travel agents, being part of the company’s strategy to engage more closely with the trade sector. These opportunities allow agents to familiarise themselves with Cunard’s state-of-the-art vessels, thereby enhancing their ability to market cruise packages effectively. The added dates and venues underscore Cunard’s commitment to strengthening relationships with travel partners by…

As global air travel reached a record high in 2023, the aviation sector achieved remarkable improvements in baggage handling, reducing mishandling rates significantly.Recent data highlights a drop in the mishandling rate, even as the number of passengers exceeded pre-pandemic levels. This success marks a critical milestone for the industry.The aviation industry has recorded a notable decrease in the rate of mishandled baggage, dropping from 7.6 to 6.9 per 1,000 passengers in 2023. This improvement coincides with passenger numbers exceeding pre-pandemic levels for the first time in five years, demonstrating the sector’s capacity to enhance efficiency despite increased demand.With a strong…

Recent analysis highlights significant variations in UK airline punctuality based on Civil Aviation Authority data.Wizz Air registered the longest delays, while Jet2.com and Emerald Airlines excelled with their timeliness.UK Flight Punctuality RankingsA recent analysis of Civil Aviation Authority data has brought to light the UK airlines with the best and worst records for flight delays in 2023. This comprehensive study considered all scheduled and chartered departures from UK airports by airlines operating over 2,500 flights last year. The average delay registered across all flights was 20 minutes and 42 seconds.Top and Bottom PerformersWizz Air was notably ranked at the bottom,…

Silversea has officially welcomed its newest addition, the Silver Ray, into its prestigious fleet, marking a significant milestone. This inauguration was commemorated at an elegant ceremony in Lisbon, underscoring Silversea’s growth trajectory.The ship was named by the accomplished Dr Maria Josefina Olascoaga, reflecting the cruise line’s commitment to science and exploration. Her role as godmother highlights Silver Ray’s alignment with innovative oceanographic initiatives, enhancing Silversea’s industry position in luxury and expedition cruising.A Milestone CeremonySilver Ray, the second ship in Silversea’s Nova Class, was aptly named in an exclusive ceremony held onboard in Lisbon. Dr Maria Josefina Olascoaga, renowned for her…