Margaritaville at Sea's new flagship will be named as Beachcomber

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

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Published: 15 July 2025 15 July 2025

Margaritaville at Sea is pulling back the curtain on its newest and biggest ship yet: the Beachcomber. Inspired by its sister ships Islander and Paradise, Beachcomber will showcase the fleet's free-spirited style, layering breezy blues, sunlit yellows, and warm beachy tones to create a carefree, sun-soaked design.

At more than 100,000 gross tons, Beachcomber will be the largest ship in the Margaritaville at Sea fleet, giving cruisers more room to roam, more fun to discover, and more ways than ever to embrace the Margaritaville state of mind 365 days a year.

“With Beachcomber, we wanted to create a design that captures the spirit of fun, warmth, and relaxed adventure,” said Martha Brabham, Head of Design at Margaritaville at Sea. “We drew inspiration from nostalgic beach scenes, vintage surf art, and the carefree escapism that defines the brand. The result is a design that feels joyful and instantly familiar one that builds on the award-winning aesthetic we introduced with Islander in 2024.”

From the top deck to the tiki drinks, Beachcomber will immerse guests in the Margaritaville at Sea lifestyle both inside and out. Onboard, travelers will discover a mix of iconic fan favorites including 5 o'Clock Somewhere, Hemisphere Dancer, Cheeseburger in Paradise, and License to Chill alongside more than 15 brand-new experiences created exclusively for Beachcomber.

“Beachcomber isn't just our largest ship; it's a floating celebration of everything guests love about Margaritaville at Sea hospitality, turned up a few notches,” said Christopher Ivy, Chief Executive Officer of Margaritaville at Sea. “Building on the magic and momentum of Islander, we set out to create an experience that's even more immersive, playful, and full of unexpected delights. Whether you're sailing with us for the first time or returning for more, Beachcomber promises sun-soaked surprises and the signature spirit.”

 

Explora Journeys celebrates triple milestones in the construction of its luxury fleet

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

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Published: 14 July 2025 14 July 2025

Explora Journeys, the luxury lifestyle brand of the MSC Group, continues to redefine the future of ocean travel. Today, a significant step forward in the brand’s journey was celebrated at Fincantieri’s shipyard in Genoa Sestri Ponente, where three pivotal milestones marked the next chapter in the evolution of its fast-growing fleet:
– the float-out of Explora III,
– the coin ceremony for Explora IV, and
– the steel cutting for Explora V

These moments, rooted in maritime tradition, represent more than progress in construction – they reflect Explora Journeys’ unwavering commitment to refined luxury, purposeful travel, and innovative shipbuilding.

The fleet – set to comprise six ships in total by 2028 – is progressing on schedule. Explora I and Explora II are already welcoming guests to a new style of ultra-elegant ocean travel and are operating at near full capacity, reflecting the strong resonance of the brand’s offering. Explora III will join the fleet in 2026, followed by Explora IV and Explora V in 2027, and Explora VI in 2028.

Anna Nash, President of Explora Journeys, commented: "Today marks a proud milestone for Explora Journeys as we celebrate three remarkable ships - each a symbol of our ambition to redefine ultra-elegant ocean travel. This triple celebration reflects the strength of our vision and the power of collaboration between our team, our partners at Fincantieri, and the unwavering support of the Aponte-Vago family. Guided by our values of care, respect, and excellence, we are not just building ships – we are creating a legacy of transformative journeys that will endure for generations to come."

Caroline Cooney-Hurrell, Customer Journey Strategist at Explora Journeys, was honored as godmother for the coin ceremony of Explora IV in recognition of her steadfast commitment and dedication to the brand over the past five years. Caroline played a key role in establishing the Explora Experience Centre operations, ensuring exceptional service and care for Explora Journeys` guests. From the Fincantieri team, Franca Parisi, Head of Quality and Performance Improvement, proudly served as the godmother for the ceremony.

The €3.5 billion investment in Explora Journeys’ six-ship fleet – all of which are being built by Fincantieri – represents a long-term commitment not only to redefining ocean travel but also to the Italian shipbuilding industry.

Sustainability commitment

All ships are equipped with advanced environmental technologies, including shore power capabilities that eliminate emissions while in port, and sophisticated underwater noise management systems to help protect marine life. A full suite of energy-efficient onboard systems also ensures optimal engine performance and reduced fuel consumption.

From Explora III onwards, the four newest ships will be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), a transitional fuel that offers a substantial reduction in emissions compared to conventional marine fuels. These ships are also ready to use renewable alternatives such as bio-LNG and synthetic LNG. Explora V and VI will go even further, with the possibility to use next-generation fuel cell technology capable of converting LNG into hydrogen to significantly reduce emissions at ports.

Windstar's Wind Spirit to sail Canary Islands in winter 2026/27

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

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Published: 14 July 2025 14 July 2025

From November 2026 through January 2027, Windstar Cruises is charting a fresh course through the Canary Islands with new 9-night voyages that explore a quieter, more authentic side of the archipelago. Following Windstar’s debut in the region at the end of 2025, these Canary Islands voyages are getting an upgrade with more immersive ports, upgraded onboard spaces, and new marina access which allows guests to jump right into the sparkling Atlantic.

The yacht-style sailings also introduce first-ever visits to Porto Santo (Portugal) and El Hierro (Spain), two dreamy outposts known for golden beaches, volcanic ridges, and time-stopping charm. With fewer people and more possibilities, these sailings are a masterclass in unrushed travel.

– Porto Santo, Portugal – Once home to Christopher Columbus, this golden isle is a little slice of sandy serenity with just the right mix of history, hiking trails, and beach bars.

– El Hierro, Spain – A UNESCO Global Geopark that packs hiking trails, lava rock pools, and slow-tourism soul into the smallest Canary Island.

"We’re always looking to craft new itineraries that show off the authentic heart of a destination, and these updated Canary Islands voyages do just that,” said Jess Peterson, director of destination experience & itinerary planning. “By adding ports like Porto Santo and El Hierro – places larger ships can’t easily visit – we’re giving our guests a chance to experience a quieter, more natural side of the Canaries, with all the comforts of a Windstar yacht."

These carefully crafted itineraries allow Windstar to serve as both a navigator and cultural curator, showcasing the unique expression of each port led by expert guides.

More Moments That Go Beyond Ordinary:

– Camel rides through Lanzarote’s moon-like dunes – with views shaped by centuries of wind and volcanoes.

– Toboggan run in Madeira – yes, a real one – followed by sips of the island’s famous fortified wine.

– Starry nights in La Palma, one of the world’s top stargazing spots and a designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

– Front-row seat to Madeira’s legendary New Year’s Eve fireworks, best viewed from teak decks with champagne in hand.

– Hike El Hierro’s dramatic coastline, then cool off in volcanic rock pools all before dinner under the stars.

With nonstop flights from major U.S. gateways to Tenerife, the journey is easier than ever. Guests can extend their trip with a Star Collector Voyage (13+ nights) or a Madrid Cruise Tour for a seamless mix of island time and city scenes.

It's not too early to start thinking about the winter holidays too, and the Canary Islands present an unsung Christmas destination perfect for those looking to swap snow for the shore. This archipelago offers a uniquely sophisticated holiday experience where centuries-old traditions unfold under starlit skies in 73°F weather. The main celebration occurs on Christmas Eve (Nochebuena) with elaborate seafood dinners, while enchanting choral groups called Rondallas de los Divinos serenade the streets late into the night, creating magical spontaneous performances that blend Spanish heritage with warm December evenings.

Fresh from a recent refresh, Wind Spirit is all dressed up with newly updated suites and staterooms, a reimagined spa and fitness area, and spruced-up dining and lounge spaces. She’ll also debut Windstar’s marina platform in select Canary Islands ports, offering guests more splashy fun with complimentary paddleboards, kayaks, and float-worthy lounging – all right off the back of the yacht.

Photo Story: Celebrity Cruises reveals four new spaces on upcoming Xcel

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

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Published: 12 July 2025 12 July 2025

Celebrity Cruises recently revealed four brand new venues, creating even more ways to restore and explore while on vacation on Celebrity Xcel. Guests can make the most of every moment on board Celebrity’s latest ship with new experiences that make the journey just as exciting as the destination, including an enhanced poolside paradise, an arcade lounge under neon lights, and new spa experiences to unwind in style. Plus, Celebrity’s first-ever Celebrity Flagship store will immerse guests in the vacation brand’s journey of innovation and offer custom mementos to cherish for years to come.

“Celebrity Xcel will set sail with seven new elevated experiences that invite guests to escape their daily routine and make memories that will last a lifetime,” said Laura Hodges Bethge, president of Celebrity Cruises. “With so much innovation at every turn, the journey will be just as fun as the destinations themselves.”

The Celebrity Pool Club sets a new standard for all-day, all-night poolside experiences. Guests will never want to leave their sunbed thanks to the new pool valet offering poolside chilled towels, card games, sunscreen and storage for personal items; and a contemporary rooftop design offering increased shading. Guests can also choose to go VIP for the day with enhanced private cabanas complete with dedicated service.

On the last sea day of each Caribbean itinerary, Celebrity Pool Club transforms into the Poolest Day Ever. The all-day takeover brings island vibes with Caribbean inspired live music and DJ-spun favorites, pop-up shows and friendly pool games. New poolside drinks exclusively served at Poolest Day Ever keep guests cool, from Paloma Fresca’s served in mini-Patron bottles to fresh coconuts with an optional rum splash. Then, as the sun goes down, the energy goes up at an all-new Shine the Night poolside party complete with elevated bites and drinks.

Celebrity Xcel will also introduce an all-day, all-night vibrant games room glittered with neon lights, Attic at The Club (see anove). This adults-oriented lounge is open 24/7 for guests to enjoy the nostalgia of retro games like Pac-Man, NBA Showtime, Golden Tee and more. Activities including pool, darts, foosball and shuffleboard will invite guests to make memories with friends, old and new. Guests can also book a versatile, private event space for various group activities including karaoke, golf simulation games, and more.

After all that fun, guests can unwind with more ways to restore than ever before at Celebrity’s most expansive spa yet. The Spa on Celebrity Xcel will feature Celebrity’s first-ever Hydra Room (see above), the newest of eight therapeutic experiences in the Thermal Suite, invites guests to indulge in a water-focused wellness experience, meticulously crafted to rejuvenate both body and mind. This revitalizing experience features a warm, bubbling pool with massaging jets and heated lounge chairs that offer soothing benefits for muscle relaxation. The serene atmosphere, combined with the calming effects of the water features, provides an oasis of tranquility and renewal. Spa goers can also soak up their daily dose of sunshine at The Spa’s new outdoor Vitamin D Deck, exclusive to Thermal Suite guests. The Vitamin D Deck offers sweeping views from the front of the ship where guests can enjoy the restorative ocean breeze from stylish seating, while complimentary non-alcoholic beverages keep them cool and refreshed. The Spa on Celebrity Xcel will offer more than 120 treatments and therapies from the comfort of an expanded salon featuring a new bubbles bar. Plus, an interactive shopping experience allows guests to trial a wide range of products before they buy and includes an advanced Skin Lab analysis with tailored, science-backed recommendations for a skincare regime that offers a vacation glow long after guests return home.

Celebrity Cruises’ first-ever Celebrity Flagship store is a unique retail experience that doubles as an interactive exhibit celebrating all things Celebrity. Guests can engage with the vacation brand on interactive screens with trivia questions and insider facts or through historical artifacts and vintage collectibles. Guests can also create and take home a memento that reminds them of their happy place – Celebrity Xcel. A wide range of customizable items can be engraved, embroidered or printed, such as water bottles, cocktail kits, keychains, caps, and robes. Plus, Celebrity Flagship will stock one-of-a-kind Celebrity products only available on Celebrity Xcel.

These new experiences are part of the seven brand new spaces on Celebrity Xcel. Guests can also look forward to a transformational experience that erases the line between ship and shore at The Bazaar (see above), and unforgettable Mediterranean cuisine at al fresco restaurant, Bora. Plus Celebrity’s most expansive entertainment offering to date will offer more variety and more entertainers delivering endless entertainment options all day long.

Guests can take part in finalizing these new spaces by joining Xcel ‘Dream Makers.’ Open to all who wish to join, Dream Makers is a global community of vacationers who test, try and vote on new experiences they would like to see onboard Xcel. Dream Makers make key decisions across culinary, interior design and entertainment including choosing games they want to add to Attic at The Club, as well as selecting the Celebrity Cruises artifacts featured in the Celebrity Flagship store. To become a Dream Maker, visit www.dreammakers.celebritycruises.com.

From November, Celebrity Xcel is sailing her inaugural season from Fort Lauderdale, offering 7-night itineraries alternating between The Bahamas, Mexico, Cayman Islands, Puerto Plata, St. Thomas, and St. Maarten. In Summer 2026, Celebrity Xcel will set sail on her inaugural European season where guests can immerse themselves in the Mediterranean like never before on seven-to 11-night journeys out of Barcelona and Athens, including all new overnight stays in Madeira, Portugal.