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Royal Caribbean's Utopia of the Seas floated out in France

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 19 September 2023 19 September 2023

It was a big weekend for the world’s biggest weekend: Royal Caribbean International’s Utopia of the Seas is now one step closer to its debut in Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida, in July 2024. The last Oasis-class ship floated for the first time over the weekend, marking a major milestone and the next phase of construction at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France.

Known as the float out, the key moment in the construction of Utopia took 17 months to reach. The process itself took nearly 15 hours, beginning with filling the new ship’s dry dock with more than 46 million gallons of water overnight. Utopia was then moved into an outfitting dock, where it will be completed in summer 2024. Since construction on the next Oasis-class ship started in April 2022, the new vacation has taken shape with more than 74 blocks of steel that have been lifted and assembled into place. Utopia will now begin to come to life as its highly anticipated features are installed, from the longest dry slide at sea – the 295-foot-long Ultimate Abyss – to a first-of-its-kind immersive train car dining experience.

Utopia will introduce unmatched weekend energy across a combination of more than 40 ways to dine and drink, more pools than the days to count, thrills, ways to chill and more. Friends and families celebrating any occasion can create their ultimate weekend and memories with their pick and mix of new signature adventures and reimagined experiences, like newly designed resort-style pools, a new Caribbean tiki bar – the Pesky Parrot – a reimagined Izumi restaurant, now in Central Park, with a new convenient pick-up window for fresh sushi and Japanese street food, and al fresco dining; and showstopping nightlife and entertainment.

The ultimate 3-night weekend and 4-night weekday getaway will be the first in the revolutionary Oasis Class to offer short escapes when it debuts in July 2024. Every vacation will feature visits to Nassau, The Bahamas, and Perfect Day at CocoCay – Royal Caribbean’s award-winning private island – that will feature its first adults-only slice of paradise, Hideaway Beach, starting in January 2024.

Utopia will also make waves when it debuts in July 2024 as the first Oasis-class ship powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), the cleanest-burning marine fuel to date. As the cruise line’s second LNG-powered ship – following Icon of the Seas – Utopia will advance Royal Caribbean’s decades-long commitment to the environment by combining LNG technology with a lineup of the brand’s already-established environmentally friendly initiatives and features, from waste heat recovery systems to shore power connection.

Windstar Cruises announces deployment through winter 2025/2026

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 14 September 2023 14 September 2023

Small ship cruise line Windstar Cruises has released its sailing schedule through winter of 2025/26, with several deployment moves for its fleet of six ships. Most notable are new season-long sailings in the Canary Islands, first-ever Cruise Tours in the Middle East, two new Cruise Tours in Tahiti, and the return of one epic voyage throughout the entire Caribbean.

An Early Booking Offer accompanies the news, including a free upgrade to All-Inclusive Fares + $100 per guest onboard credit when booked by November 6. (The upgrade to the All-Inclusive Fare includes unlimited alcoholic beverages, Wi-Fi, and all gratuities – a value of $99 per guest, per day.) These opening fares are the best values Windstar will offer on these departures.

In addition, Windstar is rolling out a newly formalized onboard cruise promotion across the fleet (and without any pesky expiration dates). Guests who are sailing on Windstar may work with the line's Onboard Cruise Consultant to book their next cruise while on their current one, and the savings is significant: a 10 percent discount that can be combined with other Windstar offers excluding industry, vendor, corporate, and groups rates, as well as Windstar's Formula One/Grand Prix themed sailings. In addition, guests booking with the Onboard Cruise Consultant receive $100 per person shipboard credit and can enjoy reduced deposits on a tier-based system, depending on the value of the cruise. With onboard cruise bookings, the guests’ travel advisor receives their usual commission. Note: they MUST be booked while sailing/on board for the offer, meaning guests sailing for the remainder of 2023 can book on board for 2025/26 cruises to save even more.

Here are Windstar’s latest/most newsworthy deployment updates:

Canary Islands in winter

Windstar previously announced several new cruises in the Canary Islands beginning in 2024; however, the 148-guest Wind Star yacht now will sail the Canary Islands consistently from November 2025 through March 2026.

The move will provide ample opportunities to enjoy warm weather and sun in a location infused with African and European culture, as well as chances to take advantage of quick flights from London to escape gray skies and cold weather with ease.

Middle East – newly added cruise tours for 2024 and 2025

Windstar is introducing its guests to the Middle East with first-ever itineraries beginning November 2023 on all-suite, 312-guest Star Legend, taking guests to sites from world religions to Egyptian temples, Bedouin villages, and extravagant cities that have risen from the desert over the past few decades.

Sail dates are now listed into spring of 2025, with more than a dozen itineraries to choose from including Cruise Tours that combine a land tour with the cruise. Brand-new options are Cruise Tours for both Dubai and Muscat in 2024 and 2025, with included experiences like a star-lit local feast and belly dancing at the Al Hadeerah Resort, as well as ample time for exploring historic neighborhoods, spending time in museums, or delving further into Bedouin traditions.

Tahiti

Windstar has created two new cruise tour options in French Polynesia, where the line has sailed for more than 35 years and is the small ship expert.

The new Tahiti & Moorea Foodie Cruise Tour is a three-day extension to Windstar’s seven-day Dreams of Tahiti cruise, with three nights in a garden bungalow at the Hotel Manava Beach Resort & Spa Moorea; a half-day Moorea food adventure including locally-produced liquor and juice tastings, traditional Ma’a tinito (a Tahitian twist on Chinese food), and stops at exemplary roadside stands; a full day Moorea snorkeling tour of Cook and Opunohu bays with lunch and cultural demonstrations; and transfers.

Overwater Bungalow & Tahitian Paradises Cruise Tour is a romance-filled three-day extension to Windstar’s Dreams of Tahiti cruise featuring accommodations in an overwater bungalow at a four-star resort including three nights at the Hotel Manava Beach Resort & Spa Moorea, a breakfast delivered to the bungalow via canoe, a romantic beach dinner, a half day private car tour, and all transfers.

In addition, starting in February of 2024, Windstar will move the all-suite, 312-passenger Star Breeze to sail in Tahiti year-round, replacing 148-passenger classic sailing yacht Wind Spirit as Windstar’s vessel of choice in French Polynesia. Windstar also recently announced new cruises to the remote Marquesas Islands beginning in 2024.

Caribbean

Windstar is bringing back its Grand Caribbean Adventure, which returns in a revised fashion with new ports on board Windstar’s flagship Wind Surf. The cruise includes a partial transit of the Panama Canal, a new port in Scarborough (Trinidad and Tobago) as well as Saint Peirre (Martinique), plus the addition of Grand Cayman. The 55-day sailing has overnights in Jost Van Dyke, St. Barts, and Virgin Gorda, and spends just nine days at sea. More of Windstar’s Grand Adventures here.

On Windstar’s San Juan & the Virgin Islands sailings, Windstar has replaced Montserrat with St. Kitts, as well as replaced St. Thomas with the lusher and smaller St. John.

On Windward Islands Surf & Sunsets, Windstar has replaced the port of Philipsburg with Marigot on St. Martin.

American Maritime Forum in Miami is bringing the maritime industry together

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 14 September 2023 14 September 2023

The American Maritime Forum that will be held in Miami Beach Convention Center on October 24th and 25th is a conference that fosters dialogue and collaboration among industry leaders, government officials, and experts in maritime industry. Considering the location - the event will of course have a significant focus on the challenges and opportunities for the cruise industry.

One of the central themes of the forum is sustainability. With increasing concerns about environmental impact, the maritime industry is under pressure to reduce its carbon footprint. Speakers at the forum are going to discuss innovative technologies, such as emission-reducing systems and alternative fuels, as well as strategies for enhancing the efficiency of vessel operations. This commitment to sustainability reflects the industry's dedication to responsible practices in the face of climate change.

Another crucial topic that is going to be discussed at the forum is digital transformation of maritime operations. With the advent of data analytics, blockchain technology, and the Internet of Things (IoT), the industry is on the brink of a revolution. Discussions are going to revolve around how these technologies can improve safety, optimize routes, and streamline supply chain management.

Government representatives are also going to be present at the conference to discuss policy matters that directly affect the maritime sector. Participants will have the opportunity to engage with policymakers and provide input on shaping the future of American maritime policy.

In addition to discussions and presentations, the American Maritime Forum will feature an exhibition showcasing cutting-edge maritime products and services. This will provide the attendees with the chance to see firsthand the latest advancements in vessel design, navigation systems, maritime safety equipment and in other segments.

Networking will play a significant role in the forum as well. Participants will have the chance to connect with industry peers, exchange ideas, and explore potential collaborations. These interactions are vital for fostering innovation and ensuring the continued growth and competitiveness of the maritime sector.

Last, but not least – at the end of the first day there will be a Cocktail Reception Party which will provide a less formal atmosphere to network. All things considered, the American Maritime Forum is truly an event that’s not to be missed. So click the link below and reserve your seat at this extraordinary gathering.

Organizer: IGGS Group
Location: Miami Beach Convention Center, Miami, Florida
Dates: October 24th – 25th
Official website: https://americanmaritime-forum.com/

SeaDream appoints Rune Thomas Ege as Senior VP of Communications

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 11 September 2023 11 September 2023

SeaDream Yacht Club has appointed Rune Thomas Ege as their new Senior Vice President of Communications.

Family owned and operated, SeaDream Yacht Club offers boutique yachting experiences on small newly-upgraded yachts.

With more than 20 years of experience from media, PR and the cruise industry, Ege will oversee SeaDream’s global media, PR and communication operations across all markets.

“Rune Thomas brings a unique combination of deep industry knowledge, passion for the oceans, sustainability and small-ship cruising. We have been following Rune Thomas for a while and are thrilled to finally be able to welcome him to the SeaDream family”, said SeaDream’s Andreas Brynestad.

“He joins us in a time of growth, with record-breaking booking numbers, and stronger-than-ever-feedback from our guests. Rune Thomas will be instrumental in building the SeaDream Yacht Club brand and reputation in new and existing markets”, said Brynestad.

Ege joins SeaDream Yacht Club from Hurtigruten Group. Over the past 7 years, he held several executive positions, including global responsibility for PR and Communications for Hurtigruten Group and Hurtigruten Expeditions.

“In a world where cruise ships are growing bigger and bigger, SeaDream holds a unique position offering a distinctive, personal yachting experience. I am thrilled to be working closely with the amazing colleagues on our yachts and on shore”, said Ege.

“We all share the same passion for our oceans, more personalized travel experiences, and a more sustainable development of the travel industry”, said Ege.

Originally a news journalist, Ege has worked with leading broadcast, print and online media companies, covering breaking news, international relations, conflicts and war zones. He also has officer training from the Norwegian Armed Forces and has served in Afghanistan.

Ege will be working out of SeaDream’s Oslo and Miami offices.

Virgin Voyages raises its capital, McAlpin to retire

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 07 September 2023 07 September 2023

Virgin Voyages has closed on a $550 million capital raise to accelerate its growth plans. The funding round was led by funds managed by the Private Equity Group of Ares Management (Ares), a leading global alternative investment manager, and also includes additional capital from existing investors including Virgin Group and Bain Capital. The new funding raise will enable Virgin Voyages to strengthen its financial position while supporting the brand’s rapid expansion into international markets, with a relentless focus on creating an outstanding and innovative customer experience.

As Virgin Voyages looks ahead to its next phase of growth, founding Chief Executive Officer, Tom McAlpin, is retiring as CEO and transitioning to the role of Chairman of the Board of Directors. He will continue to support the brand and team at an executive and industry level. Nirmal Saverimuttu, who currently serves as President and Chief Experience Officer, has been appointed the new Chief Executive Officer.

“It is hard to express just how proud I am of all that the Virgin Voyages Crew has created and the strong endorsement we are receiving from Ares. We have won numerous industry awards and received many five-star reviews because of our passion for this brand,” said McAlpin. “While I will miss the day-to-day, I believe it is the right time to step aside as CEO. Nirmal is a great friend and experienced leader who lives and breathes the Virgin Voyages culture. I know he will help take this amazing brand and Crew to new heights, and I look forward to continuing to support the leadership team as Chairman.”

Virgin Voyages officially launched in August 2021 and currently operates three ships, servicing the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, and by the end of the year, Australia and New Zealand. The brand is already making waves, including being named No. 1 in the mega-ship category in the 2023 Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards and a recent clean-sweep of the five cruise categories in the 2023 Cruise Critic Cruisers’ Choice awards.

“With this new investment alongside our partners at Virgin Group and Bain Capital, we believe the Company is on strong footing to capitalize on its differentiated product and value proposition in the growing cruise industry,” said Aaron Rosen, Partner and Co-Portfolio Manager of Special Opportunities in the Ares Private Equity Group. “We believe that Virgin Voyages continues to be at the forefront of industry growth, and we look forward to working with Tom, Nirmal and the entire management team on this next chapter,” added Jordan Smith, Partner in the Ares Private Equity Group.

“The success of this capital raise shows how much Virgin Voyages has achieved and how much further it can go. We are very proud of the experience that Virgin Voyages has created and continues to deliver every day across its fleet,” said Josh Bayliss, CEO of the Virgin Group. “At Virgin, we have always aimed to create extraordinary experiences and challenge the status quo while putting purpose at the core of everything we do. With Tom at the helm, Virgin Voyages has established itself as a company that can do that consistently. We are so grateful for his and the team’s leadership in creating a truly brilliant business and look forward to this next phase of the Company’s growth.”

Saverimuttu was a founding leader of Virgin Voyages and joined the business as Chief Commercial Officer in 2014 from the Virgin Group after successfully closing the first investment round. In early 2021, he took on the expanded role of President and Chief Experience Officer.

“I want to send our deepest thanks on behalf of all our Crew and the Board to Tom for his leadership and passion for the business. We are so grateful for all he has done and are thrilled to continue to partner with him as our Chairman,” said Saverimuttu. “Virgin Voyages is a beloved brand because of our Crew’s dedication and passion for delivering epic experiences for our guests. I am looking forward to working with the Ares team and our existing investors to deliver on our growth and expansion plans as we look ahead to our very bright future.”