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Celestyal expands ‘Iconic Arabia' shore excursion program, introduces new tours in Ras Al Khaimah

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 12 November 2025 12 November 2025

Celestyal has expanded the shore excursion program for its upcoming new-for-2025 “Iconic Arabia” itineraries on its second ship to visit the region, Celestyal Discovery.

New tours include experiences in Ras Al Khaimah – as the cruise line makes it maiden visit to the port – and additional options in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

The 1,360-guest Celestyal Discovery will officially launch the line’s new 3-, 4- and 7-night “Iconic Arabia” cruises from December 12, 2025, sailing roundtrip from her winter homeport in Abu Dhabi.

Ports of call include maiden visits to Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, in addition to Doha, Qatar; Khasab, Oman; Dubai, UAE; and Sir Bani Yas Island. Prices for three nights start at $339 per person; four nights from $429pp; and from $689pp for the 7-night itinerary. Fares include all meals, soft drinks, WiFi, port fees and gratuities.

The shore excursion program has a range of half-day, full-day and two-day options. It also offers “Authentic Encounters”, which provide unique experiences with local people and attractions, and smaller group sizes.
Highlights include:
– “Journey to the Soul of Ras Al Khaimah”: A guided tour through the diverse landscapes of Ras Al Khaimah, starting with a scenic drive through desert dunes, followed by a visit to the royal camel racing stables, an Emirati date farm, and a mountain village. Full-day tour from $260pp.
– “Ras Al Khaimah and Suwaidi Pearls Farm, Authentic Encounter”: Starting with a tour of the House of Pearls by Suwaidi Pearls, including a journey on a traditional pearl fishing boat, and visiting Dhayah Fort and Ras Al Khaimah’s Old Town. Full-day tour from $123pp.
– “Dubai from its Eye”: Starting with a scenic drive to Zabeel Palace, the residence of Dubai’s royal family, and visiting the Museum of the Future; Bluewaters Island for a ride on Ain Dubai, the world’s tallest observation wheel; and Kite Beach. Half-day tour from $79pp.
– “Delicious Dates and Tasty Cakes”: Explore the food and culture in Abu Dhabi, touring the must-see highlights of the city, including the dates market. Half-day tour from $139pp.
– “Yas Waterworld, Yas Island”: A full day at Abu Dhabi’s iconic water park, located on Yas Island. Full-day tour from $153pp.

In April, Celestyal signed a three-year agreement with the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority. The multi-year partnership, agreed at the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai, promotes Ras Al Khaimah as a key destination among Celestyal’s guests, further establishing the cruise line’s affiliations with the Arabian Gulf region.

Lee Haslett, Chief Commercial Officer at Celestyal, said: “Our new ‘Iconic Arabia’ shore excursions offer what we call a true backstage travel pass to the Arabian Gulf – giving guests insider access to the rich tapestry of culture, history and natural beauty that defines the region. From the futuristic skyline of Dubai to the serene shores of Sir Bani Yas Island and the treasures of Ras Al Khaimah, each experience, led by our incredibly knowledgeable team, connects travellers with the authentic spirit of the destination.”

Holland America Line’s Zuiderdam brings first cruise guests to Ocho Rios following Hurricane Melissa

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 11 November 2025 11 November 2025

Holland America Line’s Zuiderdam arrived at Ocho Rios, Jamaica, this morning, bringing aid, team member volunteers and guests as the country continues its recovery following Hurricane Melissa.

During its visit, the ship offloaded nearly 5,000 boxes of relief supplies, including food, water, bedding, clothing, and mattresses.

“We are honored to return to Ocho Rios and deeply grateful for the collaboration with the port, local community and tour operators,” said Beth Bodensteiner, president, Holland America Line. “The decision was made with care and respect, knowing that tourism is vital to Jamaica’s recovery and future. Our guests are excited to bring much-needed support to the local economy.”

“On behalf of the people of St. Ann, and also representing Minister of Tourism Hon. Edmund Bartlett today, I want to sincerely thank Holland America Line for this incredibly timely donation of 20 pallets of food items and water to our tourism corridor,” said Hon. Matthew Samuda, Member of Parliament of Northeast St. Ann, Jamaica. “St. Ann is a vital part of that corridor, and as we work to restore full services – especially water – this support helps us keep workers, families and small businesses going through a very tough period. It also sends a clear message: cruise partners aren’t just coming to enjoy Jamaica, they are standing with us in recovery. Every ship that returns to Ocho Rios strengthens jobs, protects livelihoods and helps our community bounce back stronger, and we value this kind of real, practical partnership.”

Zuiderdam is the first of two cruise ships arriving at Ocho Rios today and is carrying more than 1,900 guests. Before disembarking passengers at the Turtle Bay Pier, the ship stopped at Reynolds Pier to deliver aid to Jamaica’s Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management. The delivery included pantry-safe food items, baking ingredients, water, toiletries, cleaning supplies, bedding and clothing. In addition, the ship delivered a large supply of canned meat donated by Holland America partner AlphaOne USA.

Thirty volunteers from Holland America Line’s shipboard and shoreside teams partnered with Chukka Caribbean Adventures and its nonprofit Chukka Foundation for a beach cleanup in Seville, near Ocho Rios. Later this week, guests and crew will take part in an On Deck for a Cause 5K walk aboard the ship, raising money for Direct Relief’s Hurricane Melissa relief fund. Direct Relief provides medicine and other resources to people impacted by the hurricane.

Disney Cruise Line christens Disney Destiny in Port Everglades

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 11 November 2025 11 November 2025

A hero’s welcome awaited the new Disney Cruise Line ship, the Disney Destiny, Monday evening during the christening celebration at its homeport of Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

The Disney Destiny Christening combined the spirit of a high-energy concert with the theatricality of a Disney spectacular, including a multi-tiered set, drone special effects and scenic projections on the ship itself, alongside a live band and a dozen dazzling vocal performers. The waterfront production featured a custom, pop rock-inspired arrangement of iconic music from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Hercules,” “The Lion King” and “Frozen,” “Pirates of the Caribbean,” Marvel Studios’ “Black Panther” and more — a tribute to the legendary Disney Animation, Pixar Animation Studios and Marvel stories guests can experience aboard the new ship.

“For more than 100 years, we have entertained our fans in new and innovative ways, connecting them to the Disney stories they love,” said Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences, during the celebration. “Disney Cruise Line is a powerful part of that legacy because our ships become brand ambassadors that travel the globe and bring joy to our guests in ways only Disney can. Now, the Disney Destiny makes its own extraordinary entry into our growing fleet.”

The evening culminated in a sparkling pop of champagne and the ceremonial christening blessing bestowed by Susan Egan, godmother of the Disney Destiny. The prolific Broadway performer who embodies the spirit of the ship with her close ties to beloved Disney stories – from lending her distinctive voice to bring to life the witty banter and dry humor of Megara in Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Hercules” to originating the role of Belle in “Beauty and the Beast” on Broadway – recited the blessing to kick off a glittering grand finale of heroic proportions and ready the ship to set sail.

“The Disney Cruise Line team, alongside our Disney Imagineers, have invested years of their expertise, creativity and dedication into this beautiful ship,” emphasized Joe Schott, President of Disney Signature Experiences. “They have created something truly spectacular.”

Inspiring students to discover their destiny through arts

To further celebrate the launch of the Disney Destiny, Disney Cruise Line is working with local organizations in Florida and The Bahamas to inspire students through the arts with the “Discover Your Destiny” initiative. This program brings the magic of theater into classrooms, offering students a behind-the-scenes look at entertainment careers. By engaging with Disney Cruise Line’s creative professionals, students will explore their talents, learn about exciting opportunities in the industry, and be encouraged to dream boldly about their futures.

Disney Cruise Line continues expansion plans

The Disney Destiny is the newest ship to join Disney Cruise Line’s growing fleet, marking a significant milestone in the cruise line’s multi-year expansion plans to bring the magic of Disney cruises to new audiences around the world. This expansion will grow the fleet to 13 ships by 2031, and also includes the Disney Adventure, which will homeport in Singapore beginning in March 2026; a fourth ship in the Wish class expected in 2027; the introduction of a brand-new class of ships in 2029; and an agreement with Disney and Oriental Land Co., Ltd. (OLC) to introduce Disney cruise vacations to Japan in 2029.

The sister ship to the Disney Wish (2022) and the Disney Treasure (2024), the Disney Destiny draws on the legacies of larger-than-life heroes and villains from Disney, Pixar and Marvel to offer new and guest-favorite experiences steeped in legendary Disney lore. Highlights include an original Broadway-style adaptation of “Hercules;” entertaining dining experiences inspired by “The Lion King” and the Marvel Universe; immersive meet-and-play experiences with beloved characters; a Mickey Mouse-themed water attraction; one-of-a-kind lounges inspired by Cruella de Vil and Doctor Strange; imaginative kids’ clubs; and signature fireworks at sea.

The Disney Destiny embarks on its maiden voyage on Nov. 20, followed by an inaugural season of four- and five-night cruises to The Bahamas and Western Caribbean from Fort Lauderdale – home to Disney Cruise Line’s newest year-round terminal, which opened in November 2023 and offers even more options for guests.

Birka Gotland to cruise to Gdansk in summer 2026

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 10 November 2025 10 November 2025

Reservations opened for Birka Gotland's cruises for the 2026 season last week. The big news is two cruises to Gdansk in Poland, which will take place just as late summer turns into autumn. At the same time, the focus on an extended Visby season with more activities for families with children continues.

Birka Gotland, the Baltic Sea's only dedicated year-round cruise ship, will mainly sail between Stockholm, Mariehamn and Visby. In 2026, longer voyages to Baltic Sea destinations such as the High Coast, Bornholm and Riga will also be offered. Brand new are two departures to Gdansk in Poland, which will take place on 30 August and 13 September 2026, respectively.

During the port call in Gdansk, passengers can choose from several excursion packages and, for example, combine the historically important Hanseatic city with the seaside resort of Sopot, experience traditional amber crafts and enjoy Polish coffee at the magnificent Art Nouveau hotel Grand.

"Gdansk has long been in demand by our travelers. Being able to now add one of the Baltic Sea region's most magnificent cities, also via Visby, makes the cruise a unique experience," says Daniela Nikander, Product Manager Gotland Alandia Cruises.

After the success of the extended Gotland season in 2025, Birka Gotland will continue with departures from Easter to the beginning of autumn next year as well. New is an investment in more Gotland excursion destinations adapted for families with children.

"Our new Pelle Svanslös concept that we have during the school holiday periods has attracted even more families with children to discover Birka Gotland. That is why we are broadening the range on land with, among other things, Kneippbyn as a novelty for younger travelers. Of course, we are also continuing with the popular option to cruise between Mariehamn and Visby," says Daniela Nikander.

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings confirms newbuild order for third Prestige-class ship for Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 10 November 2025 10 November 2025

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., a leading global cruise company operating Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, today announced it has confirmed a newbuild order with Fincantieri to construct a third vessel in the Prestige-class series for its ultra-luxury brand, Regent Seven Seas Cruises. The ship is scheduled for delivery in 2033, marking the continued expansion of the company’s growth strategy in the luxury segment.

Following the debut of the highly anticipated Seven Seas Prestige in 2026 and a second Prestige Class ship in 2030, the third vessel will build upon the hallmark design and elevated guest experience that has defined the brand’s legacy in all-inclusive, unrivaled cruising.

“This newbuild order continues our measured, strategic expansion within the luxury space, providing guests with yet another way to experience the unrivaled aboard The World’s Most Luxurious Fleet,” said Jason Montague, Chief Luxury Officer at Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. “It reflects our confidence in the growing demand for Regent’s best-in-class offering and reaffirms our long-standing partnership with Fincantieri, one rooted in craftsmanship and shared pursuit of perfection.”

“Our long-term strategic expansion with Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., established over the past years through multiple successful orders, continues to strengthen our collaboration, especially within the ultra-luxury segment represented by Regent Seven Seas Cruises,” commented Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO and Managing Director of Fincantieri. “This latest contract confirms the trust NCLH places in Fincantieri’s expertise to deliver innovative, sustainable, and exquisitely crafted ships that meet the evolving aspirations of the luxury cruise market.”

Regent’s Prestige-class ships begin a new legacy in ultra-luxury travel, marking Regent’s first new ship class in 10 years, following the tremendous success of the line’s Explorer-class vessels. Seven Seas Prestige will be 40 percent larger than previous Regent ships yet accommodates only 10 percent more guests, delivering truly Unrivaled Space at Sea. At 77,000 tons and carrying just 822 guests with 630 dedicated crew members, the ship offers one of the highest space-to-guest and crew-to-guest ratios in the cruise industry. Beautifully appointed all-balcony suites usher in a new era of ultra-luxury accommodation with 12 distinctive categories, including four all-new suite types, including the largest all-inclusive, ultra luxury cruise ship suite in history: the Skyview Regent Suite, and two-level Skyview and Grand Loft Suites. Elegant public spaces are thoughtfully designed from the sophisticated, light-filled Starlight Atrium to the art-inspired Galileo’s Bar. Offering Regent guests the chance to indulge in Epicurean Perfection like never before, Seven Seas Prestige provides a curated culinary journey across 11 dining experiences with a further brand-new dining venue being revealed at a later date. These include Azure, a new mezze-style Mediterranean concept, and signature favorites like Chartreuse, Prime 7, and Pacific Rim.