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

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; 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

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; 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

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; 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.

Fincantieri delivers Oceania Allura

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

Fincantieri and Oceania Cruises – a brand of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. – celebrated the delivery of Oceania Allura yesterday at the Sestri Ponente shipyard. The ship is the latest addition to the shipowner's fleet and is a sister ship to Oceania Vista, delivered by the same shipyard in 2023.

The ceremony was attended by Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO and General Manager of Fincantieri, Luigi Matarazzo, General Manager of Fincantieri's Merchant Shipping Division, Harry Sommer, President and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., and Jason Montague, Chief Luxury Officer of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.

With a gross tonnage of approximately 68,000 tons, a length of 246 meters, and a capacity of 1,200 guests in 600 cabins, Oceania Allura represents a further step forward in Oceania Cruises' commitment to an offering that combines elegance, fine dining, and destination-focused voyages. The interiors, featuring refined and welcoming spaces, have been designed to ensure the luxury and intimacy typical of the brand's small cruise ships, with a refreshed and contemporary design. The new ship also stands out for its high level of innovation, designed with sustainability in mind.

With the two recently ordered cruise ships, Oceania Cruises' expansion plan now includes a total of four next-generation ships, with deliveries scheduled between 2027 and 2035. This achievement demonstrates the strength of a long-term industrial strategy and reflects a lasting, future-oriented partnership.

Already under construction at the Marghera shipyard is the Oceania Sonata, the first ship of the new Sonata class, which will accommodate 1,390 passengers and be delivered in 2027. Her sister ship, Oceania Arietta, will follow in 2029.

Viking expands to Indian rivers

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

Viking today announced its first river voyages in India on the Viking Brahmaputra, a new 80-guest vessel designed specifically for the Brahmaputra River. Currently under construction and scheduled to debut in late 2027, the Viking Brahmaputra will set a new standard for modern river voyages in India. The ship will sail between Guwahati and Nimati Ghat in the northeastern state of Assam as part of Viking’s new 15-day itinerary, Wonders of India. In addition to an eight-day river voyage, the itinerary includes a fully-guided land program with overnights in Delhi, Agra and Jaipur.

“With its rich heritage, deep cultural traditions and fascinating natural wonders, India is a vast and vibrant country that has captured the imagination of explorers for centuries,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman and CEO of Viking. “In recent years, our guests have particularly enjoyed visiting Indian ports on our ocean itineraries. We are now delighted to introduce a new way for curious travelers to explore the heart of this phenomenal country, in-depth and in Viking comfort.”

The new Viking Brahmaputra will host 80 guests in 40 outside staterooms. Featuring the signature Scandinavian design for which Viking is known, all staterooms and suites will have floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors with a veranda. Guests on the three-deck Viking Brahmaputra will also enjoy a range of amenities, including a Spa & Fitness Center and an open-air Sky Bar on the Upper Deck.

The 15-day Wonders of India itinerary program will operate roundtrip from Delhi, with hotel stays in Delhi, Agra and Jaipur that bracket an eight-day Brahmaputra River voyage, sailing east or west, respectively. With 13 included tours, guests will be immersed in India’s cultural treasures and will have the opportunity to experience as many as 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Guests will delve into the rich history of India’s Golden Triangle, exploring Agra's fabled Taj Mahal, strolling through Old Delhi's winding streets and glimpsing Jaipur's ornate Palace of Winds. While sailing the Brahmaputra River, guests will see Guwahati's temple, encounter the thriving villages along its banks, search for the one-horned rhinos and buffalos of Kaziranga National Park and discover the cultures of Majuli, one of the world’s largest river islands.

For additional immersion opportunities, Viking is also offering a variety of new pre and post land extensions for Wonders of India, including Delhi (two nights), Dubai (three nights; fully guided), Kathmandu (four nights; fully guided) and Cochin & Mumbai (five nights; fully guided).