More News

Ambassador Cruise Line and CFC reach agreement to merge

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 15 January 2025 15 January 2025

Ambassador Cruise Line, a Njord Partners portfolio company, and French cruise operator Compagnie Française de Croisières (CFC), have reached an agreement to merge, forming the Ambassador Group. This strategic combination marks the creation of a leading European premium affordable value cruise line, targeting the no-fly silver market. The transaction is expected to close by the end of January 2025.

With Ambassador’s success in the UK market and CFC’s strong presence in the French no-fly cruise sector, the combined operators provide a formidable platform from which to expand the newly formed Ambassador Group’s footprint in the European market, taking advantage of the significant growth in the European cruise sector over the next decade. With the market expected to grow by 12% p.a. over the next five years, the Group will leverage its premium and highly regarded offering to establish new destinations while delivering authentic and sustainable cruise experiences to a wide audience.

The Group will operate a fleet of three small-to-mid-sized vessels incorporating Ambassador’s Ambience and Ambition and CFC’s 1,200 guest-capacity Renaissance, which is fully refurbished following recent multimillion-euro investments. Both the Ambassador and CFC vessels will continue to offer a traditionally British or French product offering to their respective markets, with each brand retaining its unique national identity so as to ensure that all guests travelling with the combined operator enjoy an unrivalled onboard experience in line with their expectations.

With the cruise industry increasingly focussed on sustainability, Renaissance will be upgraded with the latest environmental technologies after entering Dry Dock in January 2025 to make her IMO Tier III compliant in line with her sister ships, the standard bearers for Ambassador Group’s high environmental standards and commitment to sustainable travel.

Ambassador Group is introducing a joint fly-cruise Caribbean programme in Winter 2025/26 in partnership with Corendon, a leading European travel operator. With itineraries from October 2025 and homeporting in Barbados, Martinique and Curaçao, sailings will combine source markets from the UK, France and the Netherlands, marking the Group’s entry into the fly-cruise market and enhancing its year-round offerings. Further details of the Caribbean programme including itineraries will be provided in the coming days.

The combined businesses will achieve operational efficiencies through synergies including fleet management and sourcing, while fostering growth opportunities for both shipboard and shoreside staff. Ambassador Group will be majority owned by Ambassador’s existing shareholders, Njord Partners, with Cheyne Capital taking a minority stake.

Christian Verhounig, CEO of Ambassador Cruise Line, said: “The combination of Ambassador and CFC is a bold step towards our shared vision for the cruise industry. By uniting our strengths, we are creating an organisation that delivers exceptional experiences to our guests while upholding sustainable practices. Together, we will lead the way in offering affordable, high-quality, authentic and environmentally responsible cruises.”

Maëlysse Pierrot-Guibourt, CEO of Compagnie Française de Croisières, added: “This exciting merger underscores our collective confidence in the cruise industry's bright future and our commitment to delivering exceptional experiences. CFC is a new and growing French brand, and this merger with Ambassador, a successful, ambitious British brand that wants to grow markets and destinations, is extremely positive for both businesses, maximising synergies to create a formidable force in the cruise industry. CFC, with its highly impressive levels of guest satisfaction and repeat business, offers authentic and unique premium French cruise experiences which will not only be retained but further enriched.”

Jakob Kjellberg, co-founder of Njord Partners, commented: “We are very proud to announce another significant milestone in Ambassador’s journey to becoming a leader in the European affordable value silver cruise market. We are committed to continuing to invest in the sector, confident in its potential and our ability to become a market leader. This partnership underscores our belief in the strength and growth of the European cruise market.”

Jason Montague returns to NCLH as Chief Luxury Officer

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 06 January 2025 06 January 2025

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. today announced a new leadership structure to execute on its multibillion-dollar fleet expansion for its ultra-premium and luxury cruise brands. Jason Montague has been appointed Chief Luxury Officer for NCLH, effective February 17, 2025, overseeing both Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Oceania Cruises, capitalizing on his extensive industry expertise and strong track record previously leading these brands. This appointment underscores NCLH’s focus on its Charting the Course strategy, which includes adding five newbuilds to its upscale brands’ fleets and plans to refurbish nearly all their existing vessels.

“With over 20 years of expertise in luxury hospitality and a strong track record of driving excellence, Jason brings exceptional strategic expertise to our company and to our executive team,” said Harry Sommer, President and CEO at Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings. “Having already led Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises in the past, Jason is uniquely positioned to shape their future. His unwavering passion for these brands, coupled with his financial acumen, alignment with our corporate culture and strong focus on executing our Charting the Course strategy, make him the ideal leader for this next phase of growth. Jason is ready to hit the ground running from day one, and I am confident his leadership will propel our brands forward, setting new standards in upscale travel.”

To advance NCLH’s bold vision for the future, the company plans to substantially increase its presence and positioning in the ultra-premium and luxury markets. Over the next five years, NCLH will execute its previously announced multibillion-dollar investment in its upscale brands as it pursues continued leadership in this market. For Oceania Cruises, the brand is expecting three newbuilds through 2029, starting with Allura later this year. Additionally, the brands’ ships Marina and Riviera will be refurbished in 2026 and 2027, respectively. For Regent Seven Seas Cruises, two new vessels will be added through 2029, in addition to planned enhancements to Seven Seas Mariner and Seven Seas Voyager in 2025 and 2026, respectively.

"I am deeply honored to once again lead Regent Seven Seas Cruises and collaborate with Frank in leading Oceania Cruises," said Montague, incoming chief luxury officer at Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings. "This is an exciting time for these two award-winning brands, as we are ready to execute on our commitment to delivering sophisticated mid-sized, upscale and luxurious ships with elegant designs and state-of-the art offerings. Also, the passion and exceptional talent of team members across each brand, both shoreside and shipside, are a true inspiration. I am confident we will set new standards and create unforgettable experiences for our guests."

Before this appointment, Montague served as a Special Advisor to NCLH for two years after leading the Regent Seven Seas Cruises brand as President and Chief Executive Officer until 2022. Before that, he served as President and Chief Operating Officer for both the Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises brands, where he successfully oversaw the launch of Sirena for Oceania Cruises and the Seven Seas Explorer for Regent Seven Seas Cruises. Before NCLH’s acquisition of Prestige, Montague was Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President at Prestige, where he played a key role in launching Oceania Cruises, overseeing the purchase of its initial R-class vessels, securing an investment from Apollo Global Management, and acquiring Regent Seven Seas Cruises. He also led the financing and delivery of Oceania Cruises’ new ships, Marina and Riviera. Prior to that, he served as Oceania Cruises’ VP & Treasurer and SVP of Finance. Earlier, he ran a consulting practice focused on strategic planning for SMEs and was VP of Finance at Alton Entertainment Corporation. Montague holds a B.B.A. in Accounting from the University of Miami.

To provide transition support, Andrea DeMarco, President of Regent Seven Seas Cruises will remain in her role through March 4, 2025. DeMarco’s leadership has been instrumental in the success of Regent Seven Seas Cruises over the last few years. “We are grateful to Andrea for her more than a decade of contribution to the company and for setting the foundation for Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ continued growth and success. We wish her the very best in her next chapter,” said Harry Sommer, President and CEO at Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings.

Bud Darr appointed President and CEO of Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA)

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 20 December 2024 20 December 2024

Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) announced yesterday that its Global Executive Committee has appointed Charles “Bud” Darr as President and Chief Executive Officer effective February 3, 2025. Darr succeeds Kelly Craighead, who, earlier this year, announced her plans to leave the organization at year’s end.

Darr returns to CLIA, having previously held the post of Senior Vice President of Technical and Regulatory Affairs from 2010 to 2017.

He joins CLIA from MSC Group where he served as Executive Vice President, Maritime Policy and Government Affairs for more than seven years. He has also held positions within the U.S. Coast Guard, including Deputy Chief of Maritime & International Law, and he has served in the U.S. Navy, Merchant Marine, and Coast Guard.

“Bud’s proven leadership and dedication to advancing the cruise industry’s policies and environmental leadership practices make him the ideal candidate to lead us into a new era of growth and innovation,” said Jason Liberty, Chairman of the Board, CLIA. “His extensive background and understanding of the maritime industry will be invaluable assets to CLIA as we set even higher benchmarks for success, and I look forward to working with him to drive our collective mission.”

In his role as President and CEO, Darr will lead the next phase of CLIA’s global strategy at an important time for the industry as the cruise sector builds on a strong and responsible growth trajectory in support of its 2050 sustainability targets. A highly respected figure in the maritime world, Darr brings exceptional maritime experience and outstanding relationships across the global cruise industry and its related trade, equipment, ports, shipbuilders, and service providers.

“I am thrilled to be returning to CLIA, and I am grateful for the confidence that the Global Executive Committee and CLIA-member lines have placed in me,” Darr commented. “With the dynamic changes and opportunities ahead, this industry is poised to set new pathways and raise the bar for innovation and sustainability. I am eager to harness our collective expertise to propel us toward an even brighter future. Together, we will navigate the global complexities and reach significant milestones.”

Darr will draw on his extensive experience from the broader maritime community, including his involvement with the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), BIMCO, UK Chamber of Shipping, Liberian Shipowners Council, SEA-LNG, Society for Gas as Marine Fuel, World Shipping Council, IMO World Maritime University, Cruise Safety and Sustainability Forum, and the Seamen's Church Institute (SCI), to enhance CLIA’s standing worldwide.

Darr began his education in Submarine Nuclear Engineering and later obtained his formal undergraduate education at the US Merchant Marine Academy. During his service with the US Coast Guard, he studied law at the George Washington University Law School.

Resorts World Cruises adds third ship

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 20 December 2024 20 December 2024

Resorts World Cruises announced today the 1,940-passenger 77,741 gross ton Star Scorpio as the third cruise ship to join Resorts World Cruises. Star Scorpio will introduce a series of cruises with Singapore as the homeport. The ship currently operates as Pacific Explorer for P&O Cruises Australia. For her maiden voyage, she will depart from the Singapore Cruise Centre (SCC) on 26 March 2025 with a series of voyages that will continue until 21 July 2025. Star Scorpio will sail to many popular destinations, including to Jakarta and Medan in Indonesia, Melaka and Pulau Redang in Malaysia, Bangkok and Ko Samui in Thailand and Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam.

Passengers embarking the Star Scorpio from Singapore will have a variety of exciting itineraries to choose from in 2025. The 6 Day / 5 Night Melaka-Jakarta Cruises will have ten sailings (26 Mar - 15 Apr and 11 June - 1 July) and the 6 Day / 5 Night Bangkok-Ko Samui Cruises (20 Apr – 10 May) will offer five sailings. Besides that, passengers can also enjoy the 5 Day / 4 Night Ko Samui-Pulau Redang Cruises (15 – 23 May) with three sailings, the 4 Day / 3 Night Melaka- Medan Cruises (27 May - 8 June) with five sailings or the 6 Day / 5 Night Melaka-Ho Chi Minh Cruises (6 – 21 July) with four departures from Singapore.

In addition to the Singapore homeport deployment, the itineraries are designed so that passengers can also embark for round-trip cruises at the dual homeports in Jakarta, Bangkok (via Laem Chabang), Melaka and Ho Chi Minh City (via Phu My Port). Passengers can start embarking Star Scorpio from Jakarta (via Tanjong Priok Port) from 29 March until 13 April, as well as from 14 until 29 June 2025. During these two periods, Star Scorpio will offer a total of eight sailings from Jakarta with the 6 Day / 5 Night Singapore-Melaka Cruises coinciding with the Indonesian school holidays and the Hari Raya celebrations at the end of March.

From 22 April until 12 May 2025 and in time for Thailand’s school holidays, passengers can embark Star Scorpio from Bangkok (via Laem Chabang Port) to experience the 6 Day / 5 Night Ko Samui-Singapore Cruise with five departures.
Subsequently between 28 May and 9 June 2025, passengers have the option to embark and depart from Melaka (via the ICQS cruise terminal) to enjoy the 4 Day / 3 Night Medan (via Kuala Tanjung)-Singapore Cruise with five sailings during the Malaysian school holidays.

Wrapping up Star Scorpio’s deployment in Southeast Asia, Resorts World Cruises will create new milestones in Vietnam as the first cruise line to homeport in Ho Chi Minh City. Passengers can embark from Ho Chi Minh City (via Phu My Port) and discover the joy of cruising with four sailings of the 6 Day / 5 Night Singapore-Melaka Cruises aboard Star Scorpio from 9 until 24 July 2025 during the Vietnamese school holidays.

With departures from Jakarta, Bangkok, Melaka and Ho Chi Minh City all sailing into Singapore, Star Scorpio will berth conveniently at the Singapore Cruise Center (SCC), which is connected to the HarborFront MRT and VivoCity mall. As such, passengers can commute and explore the city with ease using Singapore’s mass transit system and do more last-minute shopping at the mall.

“We are pleased to introduce Star Scorpio as the third cruise ship for our fleet and to kick start her maiden deployment in Singapore. Star Scorpio’s dual homeport in Singapore with different countries in Asia will offer Indonesians, Thais, Malaysians and Vietnamese round-trip cruises from their ports during their peak holiday periods without the need to fly to another country”, said Mr. Michael Goh, President of Resorts World Cruises. “For Vietnam, Star Scorpio will be the first cruise ship to homeport in Ho Chi Minh City, allowing Vietnamese to enjoy affordable cruises to Singapore and Melaka. For Singapore passengers, the 14-hour Jakarta port time will allow passengers to go to the historic city of Bandung using the new high-speed rail, which travels at a speed of up to 250 km per hour with the rare chance to also visit a live volcano” he added.

Prior to commencing operations in 2025, Star Scorpio will undergo a US$ 50 million renovation and upgrade in Singapore and will feature many restaurants, bars, showroom and other recreational facilities. Like other Resorts World Cruises ships, Star Scorpio will have amazing entertainment, parties and activities onboard the ship.

Viking announces 10 new ocean itineraries in 2026 and 2027 with 12 additional ports-of-call

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 18 December 2024 18 December 2024

Viking today announced 10 new ocean itineraries in the Mediterranean, United Kingdom, Ireland and Northern Europe that are now available for booking in 2026 and 2027. The new itineraries range from eight to 22 days and feature 12 additional recurring ports that are new for Viking ocean voyages: Fowey, England; Bordeaux, France; Limerick (Foynes), Ireland; Riga, Latvia; Klaipeda, Lithuania; Londonderry, Northern Ireland; Haugesund, Norway; Palma de Mallorca and Bilbao, Spain; Fort William and Tobermory, Scotland; and Karlskrona, Sweden.

“As our award-winning fleet of small ocean ships continues to grow, we are pleased to introduce new voyages that have been thoughtfully planned for curious travelers,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman and CEO of Viking. “Every Viking itinerary is focused on the destination, and our state-of-the-art ships, with no children and no casinos, allow guests to explore the world in elegant Viking comfort.”

With a fleet of small sister ships, Viking offers more than 100 different itineraries across all five oceans. Viking’s new ocean voyages visit iconic cities – as well as lesser-known destinations – throughout Europe and include the following, with additional combination voyages also available: