SunStone takes delivery of Douglas Mawson to Aurora Expeditions

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

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Published: 10 September 2025 10 September 2025

SunStone Maritime Group A/S, the world’s largest tonnage provider to the expedition cruise industry, has announced the delivery of the seventh and final vessel in this first series of newbuilds, the Douglas Mawson. The delivery took place at China Merchants Heavy Industry in Haimen, China, on September 9th. “We are very pleased with the performance of our Infinity Class, and we are proud to have now delivered seven of these beautiful vessels to the expedition market. Congratulations to Aurora Expeditions on their third Infinity," said Carsten Lund, CEO of SunStone.

Named after Sir Douglas Mawson, the Australian geologist and Antarctic explorer whose work was central to the study of the polar regions, it is the third Infinity vessel to go to Aurora Expeditions, following Greg Mortimer and Sylvia Earle.

The vessel represents an innovative and international collaboration between Norwegian naval architects (Ulstein), Swedish-American interior designers (Tomas Tillberg Design USA), Finnish interior contractors (Makinen), and a Chinese Shipyard (CMHI). The result is an expedition cruise vessel featuring best-in-class safety and comfort, as well as high operational efficiency. Multiple Infinity Class vessels have received awards and notable mentions from media outlets such as Cruise Critic, Forbes, and Magellan Awards from Travel Weekly Magazine.

Measuring 104.40 meters in length, 18.40 meters in width, and with a draft of 5.30 meters, the vessel offers a passenger capacity of 170, supported by a crew capacity of 102. Notably, the vessel is Ice Class 1A and Polar Class 6 certified, allowing it to operate in both warm and cold waters. Douglas Mawson features the X-Bow by Ulstein Design & Solutions, and is equipped with Safe Return to Port, virtual anchoring, and zero speed stabilizers. The vessel provides a wide range of amenities, including a swimming pool, bar and restaurants, lounges, a boutique, gym, spa, and sauna, all while maintaining an exclusive atmosphere for the guests.

Explora Journeys to debut in Asia, launch Explora V

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

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Published: 10 September 2025 10 September 2025

Explora Journeys, the luxury lifestyle ocean travel brand of the MSC Group, today unveiled its highly anticipated 2027–2028 Journeys Collection, a bold and expansive portfolio of experiences across five continents. At the heart of this collection is a momentous milestone: the brand’s inaugural Journeys through Asia, opening a new chapter of discovery for discerning travelers. This season also welcomes the debut of Explora V, the fifth ship in the fleet, which will begin her Journey in the quiet season beauty of the Mediterranean before continuing east to the Red Sea and Arabian Peninsula.

Sailing from September 2027 to May 2028, the Collection includes close to 100 Journeys visiting 59 countries and nearly 200 destinations. With deeper regional immersion, seamless cultural discovery and extensive overnight stays, the 2027–2028 season reaffirms Explora Journeys’ vision of transforming luxury ocean travel into a more purposeful, enriching experience.

“The introduction of Asia is a landmark moment for our brand and for our guests,” said Anna Nash, President of Explora Journeys. “It reflects not only our ambition to continually expand our horizons but also our deep respect for the cultural richness and natural beauty of this remarkable region. Alongside the launch of Explora V, this collection marks a new era – one that invites travellers to slow down, look deeper and connect more meaningfully with new parts of the world around them.”

A new chapter: the debut of Asia

Asia will take center stage as Explora III embarks on the brand’s first-ever Journeys through the region. Over the course of 28 immersive Journeys, the ship will visit 47 destinations across Japan, South Korea, China, Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore – each one a maiden call. These Journeys have been meticulously crafted to showcase the profound diversity and layered heritage of Asia, from its luminous cities to its spiritual heartlands and coastal sanctuaries.

With overnight stays in Tokyo, Osaka, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Naha (Japan), Ha Long Bay (Vietnam), Ho Chi Minh City and Bali, guests will have the time and space to engage with local life in greater depth. From autumn’s blaze of maple and ginkgo trees in Kyoto to spring’s ethereal cherry blossoms in Shimizu and Nagoya in Japan, the Journeys align with Asia’s most evocative seasons. The itineraries will also coincide with major cultural events including Chinese Golden Week in Shanghai and Chinese New Year celebrations onboard in January 2028 – marked with themed entertainment and traditional festivities.

Ancient shrines, neon-lit skylines, hidden harbours and timeless street food scenes all converge in a region where past and future continue to coexist in vivid harmony. Guests can explore serene temples in Japan’s tropical Miyako Islands, wander the volcanic landscapes of Jeju or dive into the vibrant food halls of Singapore – all from the comfort and elegance of EXPLORA III.

Explora V to explore Mediterranean’s quiet season

The newest ship in the Explora Journeys fleet, Explora V, will launch in December 2027, beginning with a distinctive approach to the Mediterranean. Her opening collection of Journeys explores the region during its quiet season, when softer light, cooler temperatures and fewer visitors allow for a more intimate encounter with culture and history. From the golden streets of La Valletta (Malta) to the hilltop vistas of Cagliari (Sicily, Italy) and the storied lanes of Istanbul, these voyages offer a quieter, more reflective Mediterranean – perfect for slow, meaningful travel.

The inaugural Journeys include 27 destinations across nine countries, with a maiden call in Salerno, gateway to the Amalfi Coast. Time ashore in places like Messina (Italy), Split, Dubrovnik and Kepez (Türkiye) allows for deeper exploration, while an overnight stay in Istanbul brings the city’s East-meets-West legacy to life.

A highlight of the season will be New Year’s Eve in Naples, where guests aboard Explora V will enjoy a spectacular view of the city’s legendary fireworks display from the sea – a dazzling way to ring in the New Year.

Following its Mediterranean voyages, Explora V will journey east to the Red Sea and Arabian Peninsula, where she joins Explora I to offer a remarkable series of itineraries through Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Oman, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Bahrain. These Journeys weave through a region shaped by ancient trade routes and spiritual legacies while showcasing the dramatic contrasts of old and new that define it today.

Guests will explore UNESCO-listed sites including Petra, Luxor, the Pyramids of Giza and the archaeological wonders of AlUla in Saudi Arabia. From Jeddah to Muscat, Dubai to Mount Sinai, this is a region of castles in the sand, soaring minarets, futuristic skylines and deep desert silence. Time-rich itineraries on the two ships include multiple overnight stays, enabling extended experiences in cultural capitals and coastal sanctuaries alike.

Dubai’s New Year’s Eve celebrations will once again be a seasonal highlight, with guests aboard Explora I enjoying the iconic skyline as it comes alive with light and colour.

Tropical vibrancy: Caribbean, Central America and the Amazon

Throughout the 2027–2028 season, Explora II and Explora IV will operate across the Caribbean, Central America and South America, offering a colorful fusion of sun-drenched landscapes, Creole culture and ecological diversity. The Journeys visit 51 destinations in 30 countries and territories, including the maiden port of Port Antonio in Jamaica, with opportunities to explore both celebrated and lesser-known Caribbean island gems such as Jost Van Dyke (British Virgin Islands) and Terre-de-Haut (Guadeloupe).

In Central America, guests can kayak beneath rainforest canopies, explore Mayan ruins and witness volcanic landscapes, while the Eastern Caribbean invites languid days of rum punch, music and white sand. The Amazon offers a completely different rhythm. Along the mighty river, guests will visit remote communities such as Boca da Valeria and Santarém, with an overnight stay in Manaus, a city carved into the heart of the rainforest.

Both Explora II and Explora IV will celebrate New Year’s Eve off the coast of San Juan, offering a front-row seat to the island’s famed fireworks from the peace and privacy of the ship.

Oceania Cruises adds perks for all guests

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

Category: More News More News

Published: 10 September 2025 10 September 2025

Oceania Cruises, the culinary- and destination-focused luxury cruise line, has enhanced its guest experience even further with a new choice of amenities under its “Your World Included” program.

On bookings made on or after September 17, 2025, guests will have the opportunity to choose one of two additional amenities: a generous shore excursion credit or complimentary wine and beer during lunch and dinner restaurant hours. This is in addition to its current suite of always included onboard amenities such as free specialty dining, unlimited WiFi and shipboard gratuities.

For guests looking to experience each destination just as they wish, they can choose a generous shore excursion credit of up to $600 per guest, depending on the length of the voyage. This credit can be applied toward any of its more than 8,000 small-group immersive tours in global destinations ranging from the wilds of Alaska, to jet-set European islands, to iconic Asian cities.

The choice of complimentary wine and beer by the glass is perfect for guests who like to sip and savor. Dozens of choices, such as sparkling wine; red, white or rosé wine; or a selection of international beers and more, are available to guests during lunch and dinner hours.

“This is not another passing promotion; it’s a brand promise and reinforces the incredible value of the Oceania Cruises experience, giving our guests the luxury of even more choice,” said Jason Montague, Chief Luxury Officer of Oceania Cruises.

The shore excursion credit, or complimentary wine and beer during lunch and dinner hours, enhances the line’s impressive array of Your World Included amenities for all guests on all Oceania Cruises voyages. These include:

– Gourmet specialty restaurants
– In-suite and in-stateroom dining
– Sodas, specialty coffees and teas
– Still and sparkling Vero Water®
– Unlimited Starlink WiFi
– Group fitness classes
– Juices, smoothies and gourmet ice cream
– Laundry services
– Shipboard gratuities

Beyond these always included amenities, anyone who books a sailing with Oceania Cruises can be assured the best overall value of their vacation thanks to the line’s Best Value Guarantee. This ensures that no matter when guests book their cruise, they will receive the best overall value for the voyage. Should another promotion be made available for the voyage and the category booked before the cruise departure, the new promotion can be applied to the booking. This secures the best value and gives the confidence to book early to secure the perfect stateroom on the ideal itinerary.

The enhanced Your World Included amenities are applicable across all sailings in all categories beginning with new bookings made on or after September 17, 2025.

Carnival Cruise Line enhances its offerings from Galveston

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

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Published: 09 September 2025 09 September 2025

Fun is on the move and as part of Carnival Cruise Line’s 2027/28 deployment, Carnival Horizon and Carnival Spirit will homeport in Galveston for the first time, joining Carnival Breeze and Carnival Jubilee. The lineup of newly available sailings, ranging from quick four-day getaways to extended Carnival Journeys cruises, continues the cruise line’s commitment to delivering unmatched variety and more capacity than ever for Galveston cruisers.

In addition to the introduction of ships that are new to Galveston, highlights include an expanded seven-day program aboard Carnival Breeze, Bahamas sailings aboard Carnival Jubilee that feature Celebration Key, as well as unique Panama Canal and Journeys itineraries aboard Carnival Spirit.

“Galveston is one of our most popular homeports, and this new deployment continues our commitment to our Texas guests and the community by adding more variety than ever,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “The four ships that will sail from Galveston in 2027/28 are each of their own unique class. That means guests will have more choices as they personalize their future cruise vacations and choose the fun that’s right for them from Galveston.”

Carnival Horizon

The nearly 4,000 guests Carnival Horizon will first sail from Galveston on May 19, 2027 on a special eight-day Western Caribbean cruise with stops in Montego Bay, Grand Cayman and Isla Tropicale. Following that, the ship will offer four- and five-day cruises to the Western Caribbean. Carnival Horizon brings added capacity to Galveston, offering frequent departures to Cozumel and Progreso, with more than 70 sailings scheduled between May 2027 and April 2028.

The Vista-class ship encompasses a variety of dining selections like JiJi’s Asian Kitchen, Fahrenheit 555 and Cucina del Capitano; family-fun favorites for guests of all ages including SkyRide and Carnival WaterWorks; and top-tier entertainment including Playlist Production shows, comedy nights and live music.

Carnival Spirit

Carrying more than 2,000 guests, Carnival Spirit will begin sailing from Galveston on Oct. 11, 2027 and offer a wide variety of four-, five- and six-day Western Caribbean cruises featuring Cozumel, Progreso and Belize. After completing her season in Alaska and repositioning to Galveston via the Panama Canal, the Spirit-class ship will offer 11 10-day cruises to the Caribbean and Panama, as well as to the Eastern and Western Caribbean, in addition to the unique 16-day Panama Canal Journeys voyage from Seattle to Galveston departing on September 25, 2027, giving guests the chance to experience a full Panama Canal transit and destinations such as Cabo San Lucas, Puntarenas and Cartagena.

Guests can enjoy a variety of Carnival favorites while sailing Carnival Spirit, including popular dining and beverage spots like Guy’s Burger Joint, Bonsai Sushi and Alchemy Bar.

Carnival Breeze

Carnival Breeze will transition to a new seven-day schedule beginning in May 2027, offering both Western and Eastern Caribbean itineraries that include calls at Celebration Key, Key West, Nassau, Montego Bay, Grand Cayman, Belize, and Isla Tropicale. Special sailings include an eight-day Christmas cruise on December 18, 2027, a 14-day Eastern Caribbean Journeys voyage on Oct. 16, 2027, and a 14-day Southern Caribbean Journeys cruise departing Jan. 29, 2028. The Dream-class ship carries nearly 4,000 guests offering popular Carnival amenities including SportsSquare, Carnival WaterWorks and Cloud9 Spa.

Carnival Jubilee

The fleet’s flagship Carnival Jubilee will continue sailing from Galveston with a mix of six- and eight-day cruises from May 2027 through April 2028. The six-day Western Caribbean itineraries will visit Cozumel and Isla Tropicale, while the eight-day Bahamas voyages will feature Nassau, Celebration Key and RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay.

Proudly featuring the Texas Star on its bow, the Excel-class ship carries more than 6,400 guests and was the first Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) powered cruise ship to operate from Texas and the third Carnival ship to offer BOLT, the Ultimate SeaCoaster. Guests can enjoy more than 30 dining venues, bars and lounges with a variety of styles and flavors.

With this deployment, Carnival will continue to have four ships sailing regularly from Galveston throughout the 2027/28 season, reinforcing its position as the largest cruise operator from Texas. Carnival will announce further plans for its 2027/28 schedule in the coming weeks, with additional ship moves creating new cruise options in more homeports.