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MSC Cruises celebrates arrival of MSC Poesia in Seattle

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 12 May 2026 12 May 2026

MSC Cruises yesterday marked a major milestone in its North American expansion with the arrival of MSC Poesia in Seattle, launching the cruise line’s first-ever Alaska season and establishing Seattle as its newest U.S. homeport.

MSC Poesia will sail 7-night Alaska itineraries from Seattle through September 2026, calling at Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point and Juneau in Alaska, along with Victoria, British Columbia. Sailings also include scenic cruising through Endicott Arm, featuring views of Dawes Glacier and Alaska’s fjord scenery.

The arrival establishes Seattle as MSC Cruises’ newest U.S. homeport and reflects the company’s continued investment in North America as the cruise line expands its itinerary offerings to include some of the region’s most sought-after destinations. Guests will enjoy MSC Cruises’ unique blend of European style and American comfort while sailing through the breathtaking scenery and natural beauty of Alaska.

To commemorate the milestone, MSC Cruises hosted a traditional maritime plaque exchange ceremony alongside elected officials, local stakeholders and Port of Seattle representatives to celebrate and share in this pivotal moment for the Pacific Northwest.

Lynn Torrent, President, MSC Cruises North America, said: “The arrival of MSC Poesia in Seattle marks an exciting milestone for MSC Cruises as we bring our distinctive blend of European style and American comfort to the Pacific Northwest for the first time. Launching in Seattle reflects our continued commitment to expanding our presence across North America and offering guests new ways to experience some of the world’s most extraordinary destinations. We are thankful for the strong collaboration and warm welcome from the Port of Seattle, elected officials and community leaders as we establish our presence in this incredible region.”

Guests sailing aboard MSC Poesia this season will enjoy a refreshed onboard experience following the ship’s recent enhancements. The ship now features MSC Yacht Club, MSC Cruises’ exclusive “ship-within-a-ship” concept, offering private amenities, elevated service and 24-hour butler service. Guests will also find new specialty dining venues including Butcher’s Cut – an American-style steakhouse, and Kaito Sushi Bar, along with an updated MSC Aurea Spa and enhanced MSC Gym powered by Technogym.

The Alaska season will feature an enhanced culinary program inspired by the Pacific Northwest, with new Alaska-themed dining and beverage offerings created specifically for MSC Cruises’ sailings in the region. Guests will enjoy hearty regional cuisine, expanded seafood selections, warming beverages and Alaska-inspired cocktails throughout the voyage. As part of the experience, MSC Cruises will source local provisions from the Pacific Northwest, including regional seafood featured throughout the season.

MSC Poesia will also feature enhanced entertainment and enrichment programming throughout the Alaska season, highlighted by “Dirty Dancing: In Concert,” a live-to-film production featuring singers, dancers and a live band performing alongside the iconic movie. Guests will also enjoy live music, themed parties, comedy performances, family activities and Alaska-focused enrichment including expert talks, narrated scenic experiences and interactive workshops inspired by the region’s wildlife, geography and culture.

As part of MSC Cruises’ commitment to responsible operations in the region, the cruise line is partnering with marine conservation organization ORCA. An ORCA-trained Marine Mammal Observer will sail aboard MSC Poesia during peak whale season to support crew training, guest education and research focused on whale behavior and vessel interaction in Alaskan waters. Guests will also have opportunities to learn more about Alaska’s marine wildlife and environment through onboard educational programming.

Viking named to TIME’s List of the Most Influential Companies

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 05 May 2026 05 May 2026

Viking last week announced it has been named to TIME’s 2026 TIME100 Most Influential Companies list, which recognizes companies making an extraordinary impact around the world. Viking was recognized in the “Disrupters” category, highlighting companies that are redefining industries and challenging conventional approaches. Viking was also named to the TIME100 Companies: Industry Leaders list for Travel & Tourism, which highlights the 10 most influential companies shaping the sector in 2026.

“To be recognized by TIME as one of the world’s most influential companies is an incredible honor,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman and CEO of Viking. “Ever since our humble beginnings in 1997, we have always done things differently in the travel industry. We focus on the destination, and we do not try to be all things to all people. We are proud that our contrarian approach continues to resonate with our guests, the industry and prestigious publications like TIME, as we continue to grow thoughtfully and stay true to what makes Viking different.”

To assemble the list, TIME polled its global network of contributors and correspondents, as well as outside experts. Then, TIME editors evaluated nominations on key factors, including impact, innovation, ambition and success. The result is a diverse group of businesses helping chart an essential path forward. See the full list here: time.com/100companies.

The announcement adds to a growing list of accolades for Viking. Viking was rated #1 for Oceans and #1 for Rivers by Condé Nast Traveler for the fifth consecutive year in the 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards. Viking is also rated a “World’s Best” by Travel + Leisure—no other travel company has simultaneously received such honors by both publications. Recently, the Viking Vesta® was also named to Condé Nast Traveler’s 2026 Hot List. Additional recognition includes ranking #1 in seven categories in USA TODAY 10BEST 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards, earning top honors from Southern Living for both its river and ocean voyages in the publication’s 2026 cruise rankings, receiving eight awards in Cruise Critic’s 2025 Best in Cruise Awards and, for the fifth year in a row, top rankings from U.S. News & World Report as “Best Luxury Line,” “Best Line for Couples” and “Best Line in the Mediterranean.” Viking also earned AOL’s Best Cruise Line for 2025 and continues to receive “Recommended” ratings for its ocean ships in Forbes Travel Guide.

Medical emergency aboard the expedition ship Hondius

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 04 May 2026 04 May 2026

Oceanwide Expeditions is currently managing a serious medical situation on board the vessel Hondius, located off the coast of Cape Verde. The Dutch company has released the following statement:

"During this voyage, three passengers have passed away. In addition, one passenger is currently being treated in intensive care in Johannesburg, and two crew members on board require urgent medical care.

As of 23:00 hrs CET on 3 May 2026, no authorization from Cape Verdean authorities has been given to disembark guests requiring medical care or to support with medical screening. Local health authorities have visited the vessel to assess the condition of the two symptomatic individuals. They are yet to make a decision regarding the transfer of these individuals into medical care in Cape Verde. The priority of Oceanwide Expeditions is to ensure that the two symptomatic individuals on board receive adequate and expedited medical care.

Dutch authorities have agreed to lead a joint effort in organizing the repatriation of the two symptomatic individuals on board m/v Hondius from Cape Verde to the Netherlands. The body of the deceased individual is also planned to be included in this repatriation, along with a guest closely associated with the deceased. This individual is not symptomatic. This repatriation depends on many factors, including the authorization and support of local Cape Verdean health authorities for the transfer of individuals requiring medical attention from m/v Hondius.

We are in close contact with those directly affected and their families and are providing support where possible.

The health and safety of all passengers and crew is our highest priority. Oceanwide Expeditions is working closely with local and international authorities, including WHO, RIVM, relevant embassies, and the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Disembarkation and medical screening of all guests require coordination with local health authorities, and we are in close consultation with them.

We are currently establishing the full facts and working on appropriate medical care, screening, and next steps. We will provide a further update as soon as more information becomes available."

Rotterdam returns from dry dock with expanded live music venues and suite enhancements

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 03 May 2026 03 May 2026

Holland America Line’s Rotterdam is back in service following a two-week dry dock in The Netherlands, debuting more space for families and friends traveling together, along with additional locations to enjoy live music and refreshed retail areas.

On April 26, crew aboard the cruise line’s flagship welcomed guests back for the summer Northern Europe cruise season. Those guests were the first to experience enhancements that include updated Vista Suites, additional live music venues, a refreshed Effy shop and updated finishes throughout the ship.

Following dry dock, Rotterdam resumed its seven-day itineraries throughout Northern Europe, allowing guests to experience historic cities and scenic coastlines while enjoying refreshed onboard spaces designed for entertainment, relaxation and connection.

Expanded live music experiences across the ship

Live music was a key focus of Rotterdam’s dry dock enhancements. Billboard Onboard and Rolling Stone Lounge each now feature additional seating, along with a redesigned central lounge that allows guests to enjoy live performances from both venues.

In addition, Crow’s Nest debuted a new live music stage, creating another inviting space for guests to enjoy performances, lectures and enrichment programming with panoramic views.

A new live music stage and bandstand was also added at the Sea View Pool on Deck 9 aft, expanding entertainment options outdoors and giving guests more opportunities to enjoy live performances throughout the day and evening.

Suite upgrades for groups sailing together

Stateroom enhancements also were a priority during Rotterdam’s dry dock, with upgrades designed to better serve groups sailing together.

Twenty-two Vista Suites were enhanced with new sofa beds, expanding quad-occupancy options aboard the ship. Each upgraded suite now offers a comfortable sleeping arrangement for up to four guests without compromising the elevated design and amenities that define Holland America’s Pinnacle Class Vista Suite experience.

Refreshed interiors and enhanced guest comfort

Throughout the ship, guests will notice refreshed interiors designed to enhance comfort and flow. New carpeting was installed across staterooms, guest corridors and public areas, giving Rotterdam a lighter, updated look. In the main Dining Room, select tables were updated to provide more flexible seating for guests.

The main public areas throughout the ship also received updates including new furniture upholstery, as well as refinished and hand-polished wood chairs, refinished floors and new wall coverings.

The Greenhouse Spa & Salon received thoughtful updates, including the installation of a new, more ergonomic hair‑washing station designed to improve comfort for both guests and stylists.

Rotterdam’s casino was refreshed and now features approximately 20 additional slot machines, new seating, updated carpeting and new televisions installed in the table games area, contributing to a more comfortable and engaging gaming environment.

Effy Jewelry retail space refresh

Rotterdam’s dry dock also included refurbishment work in the Effy Jewelry retail venue. These updates align Rotterdam’s shop with the upgrades done on Koningsdam, Westerdam and Zuiderdam. The reimagined boutique features new flooring, wall finishes, lighting and display fixtures, along with upgraded signage and merchandising elements that create a brighter, more modern retail environment. Updated pedestal and wall displays, refreshed ceiling finishes and a new central feature chandelier further enhance the shopping experience, reflecting the cohesive, contemporary Effy look being rolled out across the fleet, all while maintaining an inviting layout for guests.

Holland America Line partners with Bols to elevate onboard ‘Orange Party’

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 01 May 2026 01 May 2026

In honor of Koningsdag on April 27 in the Netherlands, Holland America Line announced a new partnership with Bols, the world’s first cocktail brand and a company rooted in Dutch heritage and craftsmanship. As a sponsor of Holland America Line’s popular Orange Party, the collaboration will introduce exclusive Bols cocktails that will be served at the event, which is held once a cruise across the fleet.

Inspired by the festive spirit of Koningsdag in the Netherlands, Holland America Line’s Orange Party invites guests to dress in orange and join a lively onboard gathering filled with music, dancing, interactive moments and festive Dutch flair. Through the new partnership with Bols, the celebration will be elevated with signature cocktails and thoughtful touches that bring an authentic Dutch spirit to the experience.

“Holland America Line and Bols are two brands deeply rooted in Dutch heritage with a shared commitment to innovation, craftmanship and quality,” said Drew Foulk, director of food and beverage revenue and innovation at Holland America Line. “Collaborating with Bols for the Orange Party allows us to bring authentic Dutch flavors, creative mixology and immersive experiences to life, giving guests a celebration they’ll remember long after their cruise.”

Guests can look forward to an elevated Orange Party that highlights Dutch flavors and festive touches. A welcome cocktail will be served in a traditional jenever glass featuring a specially crafted Bols cocktail, complemented by classic garnishes like stroopwafel and hagelslag. The enhanced celebration also will offer limited-edition Dutch collectibles for purchase and memorable photo moments, enhanced by décor that transforms the shipboard venue into an immersive Dutch experience – allowing guests to savour the journey with every festive detail.

Holland America Line places a strong emphasis on its beverage program as a key element of the onboard guest experience. The collaboration with Bols builds on Holland America Line’s creative cocktail development and strategic partnerships, introducing authentic Dutch flavors and mixology to the popular Orange Party celebration.

“Bols has been part of Dutch culture for over four centuries, and we are thrilled to partner with Holland America Line, a time-honored brand that shares our Dutch roots and dedication to exceptional experiences,” said Quirijn de Koning, brand director at Bols. “Together, we are elevating the Orange Party with exclusive cocktails that are as fun and vibrant as the celebration itself.”

Bringing Dutch traditions onboard

Holland America Line’s Dutch heritage is woven into the onboard experience, dating back to the company’s founding in Rotterdam, Netherlands, in 1873. In addition to the Orange Party, every sailing holds “Dutch Day,” a themed day with traditional Dutch cuisine, special menus and cultural treats like poffertjes. Royal Dutch Tea is served as part of afternoon tea services on sea days, and Grand Dutch Cafe on Pinnacle Class ships serves Dutch treats like Bossche Bol and Apple and Bacon Pannenoek.

A member of the Dutch Royal Family has served as godparent for 12 ships, starting with Prince Hendrik launching Statendam III in 1929. Most recently, Her Royal Highness Princess Margriet of the Netherlands named Rotterdam in 2022.