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Royal Caribbean unveils name of third Icon-class ship

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 18 February 2025 18 February 2025

Royal Caribbean has revealed the name and debut lineup of the third Icon-class ship – Legend of the Seas. The unmatched combination of experiences that define the revolutionary Icon-class will sail year-round from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, starting in November 2026 on 6-night Western Caribbean and 8-night Southern Caribbean vacations, including visits to Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas. Prior to her Caribbean debut, Legend will offer summer adventures in Europe with 7-night Western Mediterranean vacations from Barcelona beginning July 2026. Legend's debut lineup will soon open on Royal Caribbean’s website, and Crown & Anchor Society loyalty members will have special access to book ahead of the official opening on Thursday, Feb. 20.

“On the heels of celebrating one year of the record-breaking Icon Class and the memories made by vacationers of all ages on Icon, we are thrilled to announce the name of Royal Caribbean’s third Icon Class vacation,” said Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. “Legend of the Seas is the next bold step in this exciting era of vacations and the continuation of the Icon Class legacy, and we look forward to bringing the revolutionary lineup of experiences to more families and adventurers across Europe, the Caribbean and beyond.”

In the summer, vacationers can Euro-hop to bucket-list destinations like France, Italy and Spain, filled with historic sites, stunning landscapes and sun-soaked beaches. Legend’s grand Caribbean debut in the winter will take vacationers to the region’s most magnificent destinations in the Western and Southern Caribbean, including visits to the vacation brand’s one-of-a-kind private destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay, on every getaway. More adventures are in store across picture-perfect spots and next-level activities to match the views, from snorkeling in Oranjestad, Aruba, to lounging on the beaches of Falmouth, Jamaica, and exploring the cultural Willemstad, Curacao.

A legend in the making, the vacation currently under construction in Turku, Finland, is set to be the next chapter of the world’s best family vacation. The third combination of the best of every vacation will bring more of the unparalleled experiences introduced by Icon of the Seas and doubled by Star of the Seas, the next in the lineup debuting in Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida, in August 2025. There’s something for every type of family and vacationer across eight neighborhoods with more than 40 ways to dine and drink, adrenaline-pumping thrills, unrivaled ways to chill, and plenty of ways for vacationers to make memories together and on their own, without compromise.

Adventurers have in store a lineup of Icon Class highlights on Legend from thrills like Crown’s Edge – part skywalk, part ropes course and part thrill ride – to the largest waterpark at sea, Category 6. Sun-seekers can kick back and choose from seven pools for every vibe and mood, including the largest pool at sea, Royal Bay; swim-up bar Swim & Tonic and the adults-only Hideaway, featuring a one-of-a-kind infinity pool suspended above the ocean. Plus, families of all ages can spend time together or chart their own adventures at Surfside, the neighborhood designed for young families, and with a lineup of activities and ways to stay, including the three-story Ultimate Family Townhouse with reimagined spaces for the whole family.

Legend will also be the vacation company’s fourth ship powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG) and feature a proven lineup of industry-leading environmental programs. With applications ranging from waste heat recovery systems to shore power connection, Legend will advance Royal Caribbean Group’s journey toward introducing a net-zero cruise ship by 2035.

Jaakko Eskola appointed Executive Chair of the Board of Directors for Meyer Turku Oy

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 13 February 2025 13 February 2025

Jaakko Eskola has been appointed Executive Chair of the Board of Directors for Meyer Turku Oy.

“With Jaakko Eskola, we engage a proven professional who has an international maritime background and is well established in the Finnish industry. He will play a crucial part in our continuous journey of developing Turku Shipyard further.

We have taken several steps in order to return to profitability, especially last year was very busy while we continuously developed the yard and processes. We implemented the last stage of a modern ERP system, developed our organization further and relaunched an improvement program, just to name some. As a result of all this, we are looking forward to announcing our 2024 results later in the spring," comments Tim Meyer, CEO of Meyer Turku Oy.

"I am looking forward to further developing the shipyard in Turku in a situation where the market grows and the demand for sustainable shipbuilding is increasing. There is a stable future ahead of us with a lot of opportunities and I am happy to contribute in this with my experience," says Jaakko Eskola.

“With handing over the chair to Jaakko Eskola, we are sending a strong message of commitment to the shipyard in Turku and the Finnish maritime cluster that we as a family have invested a lot of personal dedication in over ten years already”, describes Bernard Meyer.

Jaakko Eskola has worked for Wärtsilä for 23 years, most recently as the Group CEO. He has also held various positions of trust, such as Chairman of the Board at Varma (since 2022), Kalmar Oyj (since 2024), Suominen (2021-2024) and Cargotec (2022-2024). Jaakko Eskola holds a Master of Science in Engineering.

Windstar unveils Wind Surf's redesigned public spaces and new suites

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

Windstar Cruises’ flagship vessel, Wind Surf, has unveiled its latest transformation project focused on the yacht’s common spaces and suites. The upgrades to the 342-guest sailing yacht debut amidst Wind Surf’s prime Caribbean sailing season, with itineraries including Classic Caribbean and Beach Fun & Sun: A Remote Caribbean Getaway.

Highlights of the renovation include full reimaginations to the main lobby and reception area, Yacht Club Café, Compass Rose Bar and Lounge, Amphora Restaurant and Wine Room, Pool Bar & Deck, Owner’s Suite, Star Boutique, and public restrooms, along with new TVs in all guest staterooms.

“Wind Surf has always been a guest favorite, and this refurbishment honors its legacy while elevating the onboard experience to new heights,” said Stijn Creupelandt, chief operating officer of Windstar Cruises. “From refreshed design elements to modern technology upgrades, this transformation sets the stage for an unforgettable journey on our flagship sailing yacht.”

Joining Windstar’s all-suite, Star Class yachts, Wind Surf’s refurbishment also features the brand-new addition of Broadmoor and Sea Island Suites, which are inspired by luxury, Five Star sister resorts The Broadmoor in Colorado and Sea Island in Georgia. The Sea Island Suite touts coastal and airy touches that evoke the property’s Addison Mizner design including a sea-glass green color palette, curved arches, light walls, and sophisticated wood furnishings. The Broadmoor Suite boasts a more traditional space with classic furniture, floral motifs, wide crown molding and white trim with gold finishes, along with striking custom wallpaper, which is an exact replica of the wallpaper used at The Broadmoor Main Building designed by Julie Penrose, wife of resort founder, Spencer Penrose.

During the final phase of the refurbishment, Wind Surf’s staterooms will receive new furniture, soft goods and décor. The second phase will also see updates to Stella Bistro, Veranda, and the fitness studio. The full project will be completed in December 2026.

All of Windstar’s three Wind Class sailing ships (Wind Surf, Wind Star, and Wind Spirit) are undergoing redesigns and updates as part of a multi-year initiative. In addition to Wind Surf, Wind Star has already completed phase 1 of improvements with phase 2 slated for April 2026. For Wind Spirit, phase 1 takes place in April of 2026 and phase 2 in March 2027.

Gotlandsbolaget presents the new name for the line between Oslo and Copenhagen

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

On November 1, Gotlandsbolaget took over the line between Oslo and Copenhagen. Now the new name is being announced: Go Nordic Cruiseline. The name has been developed to reflect the line's proud Nordic heritage and more than 150 years of history, but also Gotlandsbolaget's roots and ambitions for the development of the line. The focus going forward is to develop high-quality onboard experiences with, among other things, newly renovated ships, Nordic entertainment and gastronomy, and more time to explore the Nordic capitals.

"The name should reflect the line's proud Nordic heritage and history. For us, it has been important to both have great respect for the line's history, but also to show the development we are now investing in to strengthen the experience for guests. The logo is a development of the Destination Gotland logo, as we see a strength in showing the kinship between the lines,” says Håkan Johansson, CEO of Gotlandsbolaget.

The route was taken over by Gotlandsbolaget on November 1, 2024. The process of developing a new name, brand, logo and colors has been ongoing for some time. At the same time, work is underway to upgrade the product and the experience on board.

“We will develop the product in an even more Nordic direction, with a focus on, for example, Nordic entertainment and gastronomy. We are also investing more in creating high-quality mini-cruise experiences, both for couples, families, groups of friends and companies – with more time to explore the two Nordic capitals we sail between,” says Kim Heiberg, EVP Go Nordic Cruiseline.

One of the route’s ships, Nordic Pearl, has recently returned from the shipyard in new colors, with an aqua green hull and Gotlandsbolaget-red funnel as well as completely renovated cabins and upgraded public areas. In mid-March, the line's other ship will receive the same upgrade and in connection with this will be named Nordic Crown.

It was originally intended to launch the new brand in connection with the upgrade of Nordic Crown. But this week, enthusiastic fans have found their way to the new name - and therefore Gotlandsbolaget is now coming out and confirming this.

"It is great to see the great interest in our product and the development we are currently working on - which is the largest investment and upgrade in the line's history. We are very happy to be able to share our new brand with all our guests - and look forward to presenting many new initiatives in the coming months," concludes Kim Heiberg.

AmaWaterways appoints new President

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

AmaWaterways, a leading luxury river cruise line, has announced an update to its executive leadership team, positioning the company for its next phase of growth. Effective February 17th, 2025, Catherine Powell will join AmaWaterways as President, working alongside co-founders Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst. This strategic move represents a significant milestone in AmaWaterways' journey, as the company continues to build upon its strong foundation and impressive growth trajectory. Powell, with her extensive experience and innovative outlook, has been chosen to complement the existing leadership team and contribute to the company's future success.

Catherine Powell is a distinguished business leader with an impressive track record of driving growth and strategic transformation across the entertainment, hospitality, and travel industries. She spent more than 15 years at The Walt Disney Company, delivering double-digit growth and leading transformative efforts focused on new revenue and cost opportunities. Most recently, she served as Global Head of Hosting at Airbnb, overseeing and growing its global community of more than five million hosts of both homes and experiences. Powell is widely respected in the industry for her ability to create impact across complex operations and businesses. She is also a passionate advocate for inclusive cultures and employee development.

“I am thrilled and honored to join AmaWaterways as its new President. The company's commitment to exceptional guest experiences, innovation, and sustainability aligns perfectly with my own values and vision for the future of travel. Having spent my career in entertainment and hospitality, I'm excited to bring my passion for creating unforgettable moments to the world of luxury river cruising. I look forward to working alongside the talented team at AmaWaterways to build upon their impressive legacy and chart new courses for growth and excellence in the industry,” said Powell.

In her new role, Powell will report directly to Rudi Schreiner, co-founder and CEO, ensuring a collaborative approach to leadership and maintaining continuity in the company's strategic direction. This carefully planned expansion of the executive team demonstrates AmaWaterways' commitment to long-term stability and continued excellence in the luxury river cruise industry. Schreiner expressed his enthusiasm for the appointment, stating, "Catherine's vision aligns perfectly with our ethos of exceptional guest experiences and innovation. Her leadership will be instrumental in propelling AmaWaterways to new heights. As we move into this new chapter of growth, we are confident that Catherine’s expertise and vision will be instrumental in exploring new opportunities within the luxury river cruise market, while staying true to our core values.”

Kristin Karst will continue her role as co-owner and co-founder while also taking on the position of Chief Brand Ambassador. “I very much look forward to not only creating more awareness and forging relationships internationally, but to maintaining and strengthening our very important relationships with our travel trade (partners) who have always been at the heart of AmaWaterways,“ said Karst. “Together we will continue building on the foundation of trust and excellence for which AmaWaterways is known, ensuring we deliver unforgettable experiences to our guests around the world.”