Cunard takes delivery of Queen Anne

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

Category: Top Headlines Top Headlines

Published: 19 April 2024 19 April 2024

She’s the next in a fine line for Cunard and today (19 April), Queen Anne officially joined the cruise line’s iconic fleet during an historic handover ceremony in Italy in the presence of Italian Minister of Enterprises and Made in Italy, Adolfo Urso, and Italian Minister for Relations with Parliament, Luca Ciriani.

Cunard took ownership of their stunning 3,000-guest ship during a traditional handover ceremony at the Fincantieri Marghera shipyard in Venice – where master shipbuilders have been constructing the luxurious vessel.

The event was attended by Katie McAlister, President of Cunard; Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO and Managing Director of Fincantieri; and Luigi Matarazzo, General Manager of the Fincantieri Merchant Ships Division.

Queen Anne, the 249th ship to sail under the Cunard flag – and the third built by Fincantieri – will now set sail for Southampton ahead of her 7-night maiden voyage to Lisbon on 3 May. She will arrive in her homeport on 27 April.

As the newest addition to the Cunard fleet, Queen Anne’s design concepts have been founded on heritage, craftmanship, style, storytelling, and innovation, and the 114,000-gross-ton ship, which spans 14 decks, will offer travellers several breath-taking experiences, and more choices of entertainment, dining, and bars than ever before.

Cunard has previously announced a series of partnerships for Queen Anne, including Le Gavroche at Sea residencies hosted by two Michelin-starred chef Michel Roux, wellness packages curated by Harper’s Bazaar UK’s beauty experts and exclusive British Film Institute screenings in The Pavilion.

It will also boast the widest selection of fitness, beauty, thermal and spa facilities so far seen on a Cunard ship, with her reimagined Mareel Wellness & Beauty proposition heralding a new era of wellbeing at sea.

Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, said: “We are so excited to welcome Queen Anne to our fleet as she completes a remarkable quartet alongside Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth, and Queen Victoria – marking the first time since 1999 that Cunard will have four ships in simultaneous service. We are now fully focused on readying her to welcome guests for her maiden voyage on 3 May before she embarks on an historic British Isles Festival Voyage, including a momentous Naming Ceremony in Cunard’s spiritual home of Liverpool on 3 June.”

Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO and Managing Director of Fincantieri, added: “We are very pleased and eager to deliver Queen Anne to Cunard, a pioneering figure in luxury sea travel, renowned for setting new standards in oceanic voyages for over 180 years. This beautiful and iconic ship testifies the longstanding partnership between our two companies, underscoring our shared commitment to excellence and tradition in the maritime industry. Queen Anne, as Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth, the other two ships we built for Cunard, proudly bear Fincantieri's signature, embodying our enduring expertise, reliability, and craftsmanship in shipbuilding. Constructing a liner for such a distinguished shipowner not only reconnects us to our origins but propels us towards the future with a determination to blend tradition and innovation. Fincantieri thus confirms its leadership in the cruise shipbuilding sector, a fundamental pillar of our Business Plan.”

We’re Live: Hello from Seatrade Cruise Global 2024

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

Category: Top Headlines Top Headlines

Published: 08 April 2024 08 April 2024

Join Cruise Business from Miami this week as we cover announcements, events, and discoveries from Seatrade Cruise Global 2024. Here’s what we’re especially intrigued about: The State of the Industry Global Industry Keynote (Tuesday), exploring the show floor to discover new destinations, an innovative panel that addresses the challenges – and victories – in which geo-political events have adapted to how regions and itineraries have changed, and sharing our insights on products and concepts. Stay tuned and bookmark this page as we’ll update it throughout Seatrade Global 2024.

Windstar to add two new Star-class ships to its fleet

Wednesday, April 10, 4:35 p.m.

Windstar Cruises, part of Xanterra, announced today at the Seatrade Cruise Global, that it will add two 224-guest Star-class ships to its fleet at the end of 2025 and end of 2026. The ships will be named Star Seeker and Star Explorer and the vessels were originally ordered by Portuguese Mystic Invest, which owns, among other Atlas and Nicko cruise brands.

The ships feature ice-strengthened hulls, which will allow Windstar to offersoft exploration in destinations, such as Alaska, Greenland, Norway.

Before the ships join the Windstar fleet, the ships will be customized with several Windstar signature items, such as marina.

The new ships will boost Windstar capacity approximately 30%.

(Capacity of the ships corrected on April 11, 4:30 p.m.)

MedCruise presents the Trends in the Med and the first results of the Environmental Monitoring Programme project

Wednesday, April 10, 9:55 a.m.

MedCruise made a significant impact during Seatrade Cruise Global 2024 in Miami on April 9th and 10th through various events: Figen Ayan led the "Trends in the Med" presentation, while Valeria Mangiarotti and Jamil Ouazzani presented survey findings on Mediterranean port sustainability.

Figen Ayan, President of MedCruise, took the stage on April 9th, at Seatrade Cruise Global 2024 in Miami to address key developments and trends within the cruise industry, focusing on both global and Mediterranean perspectives.

During the first half of the conference, Figen discussed the global trends shaping the cruise industry, particularly highlighting the major sailing regions and dominant cruise lines by market share during 2023 and 2024. She further examined trends specific to the Mediterranean and its surrounding regions: the Canary Islands, Trans-Atlantic and Red Sea. Figen also dedicated significant attention to analysing the evolving trends specific to MedCruise ports.

Notably, it was highlighted that the Mediterranean and its adjoining seas retain its position as the second-largest global cruise market, capturing a 21,5% market share and accommodating more than 7 million passengers. The region has returned to pre-pandemic levels, witnessing a 6.59% increase in passenger calls and a 7.91% rise in cruise calls in 2023 compared to 2019. Additionally, it is worth noting that all major cruise lines maintain their presence in the Mediterranean and its adjoining seas.

In the second half of her presentation, MedCruise’s President, addressed initiatives undertaken by MedCruise under her leadership, from 2021 to 2024. She emphasised the importance given during the mandate to fostering connections within the industry through activities and events organised by MedCruise, such as morning coffees, PDCs, General Assemblies and other events that facilitated networking opportunities among members, cruise lines, executives and media representatives. MedCruise's commitment to promoting a holistic sustainability approach within the industry was also highlighted, mentioning various projects and initiatives led during her mandate. As the cruise industry continues to navigate new challenges and opportunities, MedCruise remains pivotal in fostering connectivity, networking opportunities and sustainability.

MedCruise’s participation in Seatrade Cruise Global 2024 also included the presentation on April 9th of Valeria Mangiarotti, Technical Environmental Solutions Director, and Jamil Ouazzani, Ecosystems, Sustainability, Wildlife & Biodiversity Director, on the findings of the survey on Mediterranean port sustainability.

This survey, in which 51 Mediterranean ports took part, focused on the development of Environmental Monitoring Programs projects, Onshore Power Supply projects, port footprint evaluation, CSR and socio-economic impacts, as well as the availability of alternative fuels.

The survey aims to provide an overview of the situation in MedCruise member ports concerning the protection of the environment and biodiversity, as ports around the world are under increasing pressure to safeguard and maintain the integrity of their ecosystems, not only by reconciling port development and environmental protection but also by seeking to ensure positive relations between communities and ports.

Key findings from this survey reveal that 29% of Mediterranean ports currently provide Onshore Power Supply (OPS) for cruise ships, with 94% of non-providers expressing readiness to offer OPS before 2030. Additionally, 27% of these ports offer LNG bunkering and 81% intend to provide this service by 2030. Other noteworthy statistics indicate that 88% of surveyed ports have implemented Environmental Monitoring Programs, 92% are actively mitigating carbon emissions and 57% have monitoring initiatives aimed at safeguarding terrestrial and marine biodiversity.

CLIA releases State of the Cruise Industry report

Wednesday, April 10, 8:20 a.m.

Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has released its 2024 State of the Cruise Industry report. This year’s report includes the release of 2023 passenger volume, which reached 31.7 million – surpassing 2019 by 7%.The report also shows continued demand for cruise holidays, noting intent to cruise at 82%. The forecast for cruise capacity shows an increase of 10% from 2024 through 2028, as cruise lines make ongoing, concrete progress in pursuit of net- zero emissions by 2050.

Other highlights include the forecast for cruise capacity through 2028 and a summary of the 2024 – 2028 cruise orderbook, as well as the latest cruise trends, which include.

– The number of new-to-cruise is increasing – 27% of cruisers over the past two years are new-to-cruise, an increase of 12% over the past year.
– Cruises are a top choice for multi-generational travel – with more than 30% of families traveling by cruise with at least two generations and 28% of cruise travelers traveling with three to five generations.
– Expedition and exploration are the fastest-growing sectors of cruise tourism, with a 71% increase in passengers traveling on expedition itineraries from 2019 to 2023.
– Accessible tour excursions are on the rise—with 45% of cruise passengers booking an accessible tour for their most recent cruise.
– 73% of cruise travelers say that travel advisors have a meaningful influence on their decision to cruise.

Taiwan promotes its ambitions to be the 
cruise industry’s leading home port in Asia

Wednesday, April 10, 6:40 a.m.

The Taiwan Tourism Administration (TTA), in collaboration with Taiwan International Ports Corp. (TIPC) and the Maritime and Port Bureau, MOTC (MPB),unveiled the Taiwan Pavilion at the world-renowned Seatrade Cruise Global 2024, the premier event for the cruise industry, hosted at the Miami Beach Convention Center from April 8-11, 2024.

Innovatively blending tradition and ambition, the Taiwan Pavilion is designed in the likeness of a Taiwanese sky lantern. Each facet shares an aspect of Taiwan, including its rich culture, exquisite delicacies, breathtaking nature, and key ports, inviting cruise industry executives to choose Taiwan as their cruise lines’ next port of call.

The booth’s inauguration was marked by an exclusive VIP reception that saw the attendance of senior officials from TTA, TIPC, and MPB. The event was graced by luminaries from global cruise lines, industry associations, and port authorities from adjacent countries. The reception put Taiwan’s best foot forward, with speeches delivered by TTA Deputy Director General, Trust Hsin-Jen Lin, a performance by dancers from Taiwan’s indigenous Amis tribe, a presentation on Taiwan’s cruising prospects, a fusion of Taiwanese and Western snacks, and a sky lantern launching ceremony. With Taiwan's officials and international industry leaders inscribing their hopes for Taiwan’s cruise sector on an inflatable lantern, and symbolically launching it into the exhibition hall’s 'sky', they together created a visible spectacle of shared dreams and mutual prosperity.

Dr. Trust Lin, Deputy Director-General of Taiwan Tourism Administration underscored the Taiwan’s successful recovery of its cruise industry: "Prior to the pandemic, Taiwan was the second largest source market for cruise passengers in Asia. In 2019, over a million passengers embarked on cruises from Taiwan, with over 600 cruises calling in Taiwan or using it as a home port, generating an economic value of approximately US$1 billion. As of 2024, Taiwan’s cruise industry has recovered to around 70% of the pre-pandemic levels. Taiwan Tourism Administration (TTA), Taiwan International Ports Corporation (TIPC), and the Maritime and Port Bureau (MPB) have all introduced incentives to invite more cruise ships to call at Taiwan or use Taiwan as a home port."

Taiwan's endeavor to promote its ports at Seatrade Cruise Global 2024, particularly Keelung and Kaohsiung as home ports, leverages its position as the 2nd largest source market for cruising in Asia. This initiative underscores the potential for leading cruise lines to anchor their Asian operations within Taiwan's welcoming shores, offering travelers unparalleled access to the myriad of experiences that The Heart of Asia has to offer.

Taiwan, with its picturesque landscapes nestled between mountains and sea, boasts rich biodiversity and a vibrant tapestry of cultures. Throughout the year, it hosts a plethora of themed events, each season bringing its own unique charm. From the north to the south and everywhere in between, Taiwan's charming towns showcase rich local traditions and captivating cultural heritage, exuding an irresistible allure.

Taiwan's stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and diverse culture make it a captivating destination year-round. From north to south, charming towns offer unique traditions and cultural experiences. Additionally, Taiwan's culinary scene, ranging from vibrant night markets to Michelin-recommended restaurants, is a highlight for cruise passengers. Explore more about Taiwan's cruise industry at bit.ly/CruiseTaiwan.

Four Asia destinations team up in “The Rebound” at Seatrade Cruise Global

Tuesday, April 9, 10 a.m

For the first time since the pandemic, the Asian destinations of Hong Kong, Korea, the Philippines and China’s Xiamen hosted a joint lunch yesterday in Miami’s South Beach to proclaim the rebounding of Asia in the cruise space.

What’s important, said Kenneth Wong, General Manager, MICE & Cruise at the Hong Kong Tourism Board (pictured above), who spoke for the group, “is that destinations across this region collaborate and innovate. Asian destinations are continually improving and updating through very strong partnerships and this represents a very bright future.”

The four destinations spotlighted at the luncheon featured, all total, 18 ports of call, including Korea’s Incheon, Busan, Sokcho, Yeosu, Jeju and Gangjeong, and Xiamen’s international cruise terminal. Also highlighted were Hong Kong’s Kai Tak Cruise Terminal and its Ocean Terminal, as well as details on its role as being pivotal to flight traffic (visa-free entrance to 170 countries, an airport with three runways and 170 different airlines). In the Philippines, the presentation centered on the archipelago’s offerings in culture, cuisine, and nature.

Also noted is that Korea’s Jeju Island will host the 11th Asia Cruise Forum Jeju in 2024, scheduled for July 10 – 12.

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings starts off Seatrade Cruise Global week with fireworks

Monday, April 8, 5:10 p.m.

What a way to start off Seatrade Cruise Global 2024: Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings announced Monday afternoon that it had placed its largest ever new build order for lines Oceania and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, along with a letter of intent for Norwegian Cruise Line for a total of eight vessels. We’ve got all the details here on CruiseBusiness.com.

Anticipating the State of the Industry Global Cruise Keynote

Monday, April 8, 10 a.m.

We’re preparing for an extremely busy week in Miami at Seatrade Global and of all the discussions, panels and meetings, there’s one that always stands above the others: the State of the Industry Global Cruise Keynote.

Taking place on Tuesday from 9:30 – 11:30 a.m., the roundtable discussion includes Kelly Craighead, President and CEO of Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA); Jason Liberty, President and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group; Harry Sommer, President and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.; Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman at Cruise Division of MSC Cruises; and Josh Weinstein, President, CEO and Chief Climate Officer, Carnival Corporation & plc. The session will be moderated by Anne Kalosh, Editor at Seatrade Cruise News.

What’s on tap for discussion? At this point, Seatrade tells us that the following topics will be addressed by the panel:

– Environmental sustainability: Perspectives on the path to achieve net zero emissions by 2050, new environmental technologies, the pursuit of sustainable marine fuels
– The importance of having a regulatory framework that provides access to sufficient quantities of competitively priced sustainable marine fuels
– Geopolitical issues: How the latest events are impacting cruising
– Market demand and what to expect for 2024 and beyond—from attracting more new-to-cruise travelers, to expanding cruise to new markets
– Innovation: New features and products that are enhancing the cruise experience
– Digitalization and the use of AI

Cruise Business will provide a recap – and its own insights – that emerge from the roundtable tomorrow.