Author: Shawon Hannan

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has announced the launch of Norwegian Luna, set to sail from April 2026. The newest addition to the Prima Plus class highlights NCL’s expansion strategy.The vessel, designed to enhance guest experiences, includes innovative features and expansive itineraries in the Caribbean, reflecting NCL’s ongoing commitment to luxury cruising.Introducing Norwegian Luna: A New Era in CruisingNorwegian Cruise Line (NCL) recently announced the unveiling of its newest vessel, Norwegian Luna, a significant addition to its Prima Plus class. Set to commence its maiden voyage from Miami in April 2026, the ship is already available for booking. This announcement marks…

Newmarket Holidays has strengthened its team with a key appointment in the northeast. Wayne Szczambura brings a wealth of experience to the role.Szczambura’s addition comes at a pivotal time as the company prepares for exciting new developments in 2025.Wayne Szczambura’s AppointmentNewmarket Holidays has announced a significant addition to its team with the appointment of Wayne Szczambura as the new account manager for the northeast. Szczambura, who will assume his role on September 30, brings over two decades of experience in the travel industry. This appointment is seen as a strategic move as Newmarket Holidays plans to unveil several new initiatives…

Carnival Cruise Line has successfully completed an unprecedented ship visit programme, marking a significant milestone in its engagement with travel partners. The programme, which took place over the summer, saw 250 travel partners experience the Carnival Legend firsthand.Spanning across June to August, the visits were strategically held in key ports including Dover, Liverpool, Edinburgh, and Belfast. Travel agents were given an immersive experience, highlighting the 2,124-guest ship’s offerings, ultimately aimed at enhancing their ability to promote and sell Carnival cruises effectively.Record-Breaking EngagementThis ambitious programme underlines Carnival Cruise Line’s commitment to strengthening its relationship with trade partners. The scale of this…

In response to increasing interest, TUI River Cruises is set to expand its fleet on the Nile. Next winter, a second vessel will be added, catering to the heightened product demand witnessed in 2024.The addition of TUI Bahareya underscores TUI’s strategic expansion in river cruising. Aimed at enhancing customer experience through innovative offerings, this move aligns with emerging travel trends.TUI River Cruises is gearing up to launch TUI Bahareya, the sixth addition to their fleet, marking their second vessel on the Nile. This development reflects an increasing demand as travellers show a keen interest in exploring the historical and cultural…

In recent weeks, flooding across Europe, triggered by Storm Boris, has significantly disrupted river cruise itineraries. Impacted areas particularly include the Upper Danube River.Operators like Scenic Group and Avalon Waterways are adapting swiftly, emphasising passenger safety while mitigating disruptions. However, the unpredictable weather patterns have necessitated continual vigilance and strategic adjustments.Recently, a number of river cruise lines in Europe, such as Scenic Group and Avalon Waterways, have had to modify their itineraries due to severe flooding precipitated by Storm Boris. The adverse weather conditions resulted in significant disruptions, compelling these companies to take immediate action to ensure the safety and…

Kelly Craighead, the esteemed leader of the global cruise trade association, is set to depart at the year’s end. Her impressive tenure since 2018 has seen the industry navigate unprecedented challenges.Craighead’s Impactful TenureSince her appointment as president and chief executive of the Cruise Lines International Association (Clia) in January 2018, Kelly Craighead has played a pivotal role in steering the industry through one of its most challenging periods. Her leadership was instrumental in guiding the cruise sector through significant disruptions, notably the global pandemic. Under her guidance, the industry not only weathered the storm but emerged with robust initiatives aimed…

Recent research indicates that the global travel market is on track to expand more rapidly than the worldwide economy over the next four years.Driven by increased travel demand in regions like the US and Europe, as well as the rising middle classes in countries such as India and Indonesia, the market is set for notable growth.Travel Market Growth ForecastsThe global travel market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 6% from 2024 to 2028. This expansion will see travel spend exceeding 2019 levels for the first time post-pandemic, reaching over $2 trillion this year.This growth trajectory…

Manchester Airport is on the cusp of unveiling the second phase of its expansive Terminal 2 redevelopment. Set to open in summer 2025, this remarkable transformation aims to enhance passenger experience through a variety of new shops, bars, and dining options.Enhancements at Terminal 2The upcoming completion of Manchester’s Terminal 2 marks a significant milestone in the airport’s ongoing expansion efforts. This strategic development will introduce an unprecedented variety of retail and dining options, extending the offerings available to passengers since the opening of the first phase in 2021. The Terminal 2 expansion is a pivotal component of the larger £1.3…

Protected Trust Services (PTS) has embarked on a strategic rebranding initiative, aiming to enhance its visibility and foster growth within the travel sector. The move is set to reshape the company’s identity and strengthen its engagement with existing and potential members.The revitalised PTS brand features a new logo and website, designed to better represent its expanded service offerings. This transformation reflects a commitment to innovation and excellence, providing members with the tools and flexibility needed to succeed in a competitive environment.The Rationale Behind the RebrandProtected Trust Services (PTS) has embarked on a new journey by unveiling a comprehensive rebrand aimed…

Hays Travel is poised to host its annual cruise experts conference aboard Virgin Voyages’ Resilient Lady. This year, approximately 70 agents will participate in the event.The conference aims to provide an immersive learning experience for agents and foster collaboration with key cruise industry suppliers.Annual Cruise Experts ConferenceHays Travel is preparing for its annual cruise experts conference, an event that serves as both a learning opportunity and a networking platform for 70 agents. Delegates will board the Virgin Voyages’ Resilient Lady from September 19-23, setting sail from Portsmouth to Amsterdam.Attendees will include retail agents, members of the Independence Group, and Personal…