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Seabourn's expedition voyages drive exceptional bookings

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 12 November 2024 12 November 2024

Seabourn has experienced exceptional booking volume for its expedition voyages, demonstrating a high level of interest and desire by luxury travelers to experience a Seabourn ultra-luxury expedition vacation.

Current net bookings for expedition voyages are nearly 30% more compared to this same time in 2023. Limited space is available on the award-winning ships, Seabourn Venture and Seabourn Pursuit, during the 2025 expedition season, including the Northwest Passage, Arctic, Amazon, and South Pacific, with some destinations already sold out. Due to the strong demand and high occupancy levels, prices continue to rise, and guests are encouraged to book now for the best pricing and suite availability.

“We are very encouraged by the extensive amount of interest and bookings for our expedition voyages, which indicates that the time to book a Seabourn expedition is now when space may be limited or even fully booked,” said Natalya Leahy, president of Seabourn. “When we introduced our first expedition ship more than two years ago, we knew that we would deliver an extraordinary experience that would exceed our guests’ expectations, and I’m beyond thrilled to share that we have been able to do this. Our strong booking volume clearly demonstrates that travelers have responded incredibly well to our ultra-luxury expedition experiences.”

Since Seabourn launched its expedition ships, the cruise line has received more than 15 awards and accolades recognizing the outstanding expedition offerings and services.

In addition to the popular 2025 season, space is still available on the line’s 2026-2027 expedition voyages. Travelers who wish to explore the majesty of Antarctica may book a voyage on either Seabourn Venture or Seabourn Pursuit in late 2025 and early 2026. The ships will operate a series of 11- and 13-day voyages to Antarctica, as well as two 21-day and one 28-day voyage that will include South Georgia and the Falkland Islands.

Following the Antarctica season between March and November 2026, Seabourn Venture will sail on a series of 10- to 25-day voyages to Iceland, Greenland, and the British Isles. Seabourn Pursuit will operate expedition voyages ranging from 10 to 22 days to the South Pacific and the Kimberley in Western Australia between March and November 2026. Both ships return to Antarctica in November 2026 through March 2027.

Both Seabourn Venture and Seabourn Pursuit offer the same luxurious small ship experience that travelers have come to expect from Seabourn, enhanced by world-class equipment that allows the line to offer its widest range of expedition activities led by an expert 23-person expedition team of scientists, scholars, naturalists, and more. Designed and built for remote, diverse environments to PC6 Polar Class standards, the ship includes a plethora of modern hardware and technology that extends the ship’s global deployment and capabilities. There is close to 30,000 square feet of deck space and special touches at every turn, as well as indoor and outdoor guest areas with nearly 270-degree views. In addition, a 4K GSS Cineflex Camera is mounted on the mast of the Constellation Lounge and capable of broadcasting imagery from miles ahead on monitors located throughout the ship and in guest suites.

The ships are also equipped with enhanced Wi-Fi connectivity with SpaceX’s Starlink, providing its expedition guests with faster service and greater connectivity, rivaling the best Wi-Fi experiences available on land.

Mitsui Ocean Cruises to offer new and innovative shore excursions program

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 11 November 2024 11 November 2024

For over 100 years, Mitsui Ocean Cruises has sailed the iconic 18,000 miles of Japan’s coastlines showcasing the country’s unique history, traditions, arts and customs. This long history has provided Mitsui Ocean Cruises with unrivaled destination experience and expertise.

As part of its continuous improvement efforts, Mitsui Ocean Cruises has partnered with Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport & Tourism (MLIT) and with local port and tourism boards across Japan. As a result of these collaborative efforts, the cruise line is offering a program of new shore excursions for both of its cruise ships – Nippon Maru and the upcoming Mitsui Ocean Fuji.

Japan has 150 ports of call for cruise ships – more than any other country in the world. Together with its smaller ships, this presents many opportunities to continually review and refine tours and attractions presented to the guests onboard Mitsui Ocean Cruises.

“The wide variety of ports Japan offers and our focus on the smaller ship experience provide us a greater opportunity to create more bespoke and exclusive experiences based on what’s new, different and of potential guest interest,” said Sae Ichikawa, General Manager of Destination Experience for Mitsui Ocean Cruises. “We are excited to optimize the guest experience ashore, so we welcome our partnerships with both Japan’s MLIT and local port and tourism boards across the country to deliver unique, memorable and engaging tours, many of which are exclusive for our guests only. We are also very proud to be able to support and contribute to the economy of the smaller ports around the country.”

MLIT’s broad responsibilities include its nation’s ports and is committed to fostering the sustainable development of domestic ports and revitalizing regional areas through cruise tourism. As part of these efforts, MLIT has collaborated with Mitsui Ocean Cruises to further enhance the cruise line’s high quality shore excursions program.

"The Ministry places great importance on collaborating with Mitsui Ocean Cruises to develop premium shore excursions programs,” said Yusuke Hayashi, Director of Cruise Market Development, MLIT. “We look forward to Mitsui’s efforts to enhance shore excursion offerings and develop innovative programs at emerging ports.”

In addition to MLIT’s efforts, the ports across Japan are represented by proactive and knowledgeable port and tourism boards. Mitsui Ocean Cruises’ partnership with these teams of local experts has yielded a wide variety of new and authentic excursions. Here are a few examples:

–Fugu restaurant and Usuki Castle Town (Beppu): Guests journey to Usuki Stone Buddhas located in southeast of Oita Prefecture. There exist 60 stone Buddhas and 59 of them registered as national treasures. Guests will be impressed by their sheer number and high quality. After that, guests will enjoy a popular delicacy Pufferfish lunch. Then, stroll through the castle town of Usuki on foot with stops at the Usuki Castle ruins, Inaba Family Suburban Residence and Nogami Yaeko Literature Museum, to fully experience the history and culture of Usuki.

– Okonomiyaki in-Depth (Hiroshima): Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki is one of the soul foods of Hiroshima. It's unique for its layered preparation, with ingredients like cabbage, bean sprouts, pork, and noodles piled onto a thin crepe-like batter. Enjoy Okonomiyaki at 'Micchan,’ a long-established Okonomiyaki restaurant beloved by the people of Hiroshima, which will be reserved exclusively for Mitsui Ocean Fuji guests. A special and exclusive visit to "Micchan,” where lines are a must, allows guests to enjoy the authentic taste of okonomiyaki while listening to the history and how to eat it.

– Sikoku Pilgrim Walking (Sakaide): First, guests will walk with a guide along the 550- meter pilgrimage route to Negoro-ji Temple to experience the Shikoku pilgrimage to the temple. The pilgrimage route is a charming path with many remnants of the old road still visible today. Guests will enjoy the pilgrimage experience while listening to the special guide's explanations, walking the same path that Kobo Daishi once did. At Nekoro-ji Temple, learn the official way to visit the temple on the pilgrimage route, along with a monk's guide to the temple grounds. Next visit Ritsurin Park where, in the Edo period it was a villa of the feudal lord called Ritsurin – a “hospitality garden,” where the lord entertained his guests. Guests will admire the beautifully manicured gardens.

– Zentuji Temple with Monk (Takamatsu): In this tour, you will be guided by the Monk through the precincts of Zentsuji Temple, known as the birthplace of Kobo Daishi, including Nandaimon (South Gate), the Five-Storied pagoda, Kondo (Golden Hall), and Kaidan Meguri. The Five-Storied Pagoda is a nationally important cultural property, and its normally closed doors will be specially opened for the guests of Mitsui Ocean Fuji, providing an unforgettable experience.

“Collaborating with Mitsui Ocean Fuji to explore ways for guests to enjoy our region is an exciting endeavor, and at the same time, it provides a valuable opportunity to envision and actively shape the future of our community,” said Mayumi Hayashi, Kochi Prefectural Government Port Representative.

These new shore excursions will be offered for the debut cruise of the cruise line’s new 458-guest, 32,477-gross-ton Mitsui Ocean Fuji, scheduled to debut in Yokohama on December 1, 2024. Mitsui Ocean Fuji will be Japan's most luxurious all-suite cruise ship with and spacious passenger venues, traditional omotenashi service, delicately flavored and beautifully presented cuisine, lively entertainment and exciting ports of call. The ship will sail on inspiring voyages celebrating the blue ocean and Japan’s awesome natural beauty.

On sale now, the inaugural season offers a series of Debut Cruises (December 2024-January 2025), including a special New Year’s sailing; Spring and Golden Week Cruises (April-May 2025); and a 66-day Grand Asia Cruise (May-July 2025).

Viking names two newest Nile river ships in Luxor

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 08 November 2024 08 November 2024

Viking named its newest river ships, the Viking Hathor and the Viking Sobek, with a special celebration in Luxor, Egypt on November 5. The Hon. Edward Herbert, served as ceremonial godfather of the Viking Hathor; his great-great-grandfather, the 5th Earl of Carnarvon, was Howard Carter’s benefactor and co-explorer, whose excavation uncovered the tomb of King Tutankhamen near Luxor almost exactly 102 years ago on November 4, 1922. Mohamed El Banna, founder of Cosmos Egypt and a member of the Egyptian Senate, served as the ceremonial godfather of the Viking Sobek. The Viking Hathor and the Viking Sobek are identical sister ships to the Viking Aton and the Viking Osiris and are state-of-the-art vessels designed specifically to navigate the Nile River on Viking’s popular 12-day Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary and built at Massara shipyard in Cairo.

"Today, we are proud to welcome the Viking Hathor and the Viking Sobek to our growing fleet in Egypt. Along with their sister ships, we believe they are by far the most elegant vessels on the Nile,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman and CEO of Viking. “We are very grateful for our continued close friendship with the Carnarvon family and that Eddie has honored us by serving as godfather of the Viking Hathor. For more than 15 years, Mohamed El Banna has been a part of the extended Viking family, helping to take good care of our guests in Egypt, and it is a great honor that he is serving as godfather of the Viking Sobek. As our award-winning fleet on the Nile continues to grow, we look forward to introducing even more curious travelers to this phenomenal destination.”

The naming ceremony of the Viking Hathor and the Viking Sobek took place at Viking’s exclusive docking location in Luxor and was followed by a celebratory dinner inside the nearby Karnak Temple. Viking’s guests also enjoyed a performance by Sissel Kyrkjebø, one of the world’s leading crossover sopranos and godmother of the Viking Jupiter®, who sang the Egyptian, Norwegian and United Kingdom’s national anthems in their native languages.

Crystal signs order with Fincantieri for third ocean ship

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 08 November 2024 08 November 2024

Crystal announced today the finalization of an order with renowned Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri for construction of a third ocean ship. This comes as a result of the option granted under the two-unit agreements announced earlier this summer.

Similar to its sister ships, the 690-passenger (based on double occupancy), 61,800-gross-ton ship will feature a host of amenities and innovative designs, ensuring unparalleled comfort and indulgence for guests. Developed by renowned international architectural firms, the interior designs will use the finest materials and the best craftsmanship.

A standout feature will be a promenade extending through the whole ships’ perimeter, similar to those loved by guests on Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity, for leisurely strolls with stunning ocean views. Culinary enthusiasts will be delighted by a variety of dining options, showcasing a variety of world-class cuisines including Umi Uma, the only Nobu at sea as well as Beefbar, the brainchild of visionary restaurateur Riccardo Giraudi along with dishes created in collaboration with world-renowned chef Massimiliano and Raffaele Alajmo. Additionally, Crystal will continue its legacy of offering exclusive entertainment along with Casino de Monte-Carlo which is set to debut on Crystal Symphony this month and Cystal Serenity in December.

The new ships will feature all-suite accommodations, with private verandas including a popular single occupancy category, with veranda, designed for solo travelers. This commitment to comfort is complemented by one of the highest crew-to-passenger ratios in this segment, ensuring personalized service and attention to detail.

“Exercising this option and agreeing to build a third ship together showcases the trust and partnership between my family and Fincantieri, dating back to Sitmar Cruises and evolving through Silversea to our present vision with Crystal,” said Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio, Executive Chairman of A&K Travel Group.

Cristina Levis, CEO of A&K Travel Group, added, “We’re pleased to bring an expanded fleet to our guests, offering even more ways to explore the world with the extraordinary service and style synonymous with Crystal.”

The announcement comes two years after A&K Travel Group acquired Crystal in 2022, marking a new chapter for the cruise line. Under A&K Travel Group’s leadership, Crystal has been focusing on enhancing its offerings both at sea and on shore and expanding its fleet to provide unparalleled experiences for its guests.

Resorts World Cruises celebrates maiden sailing from Dubai

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 04 November 2024 04 November 2024

Resorts World Cruises has arrived in Dubai with the Resorts World One commencing her first sailing from 1 November 2024 onwards. The 1,800-passenger cruise ship departs from the Port Rashid Cruise Terminal 2 in Dubai three times a week to the Gulf destinations.

A special celebratory event was held on the ship on November 1 with close to 600 invitees to commemorate this milestone event. Resorts World Cruises’ President, Michael Goh and its senior management welcomed onboard regional dignitaries, authorities, members of the press and key influencers. The port-stay event included a series of special memento presentations with invitees having the chance to experience the onboard LIVE performances, the wide array of cuisines and a guided ship tour of the ship’s accommodations, facilities and offerings.

As part of the inaugural sailing celebration, guests can look forward to special added-value promotions. This includes receiving complimentary Food & Beverage Onboard Credits valued at AED 700 or US$190 per cabin for sailings in November for both the 3-Night Oman Cruise and the 2-Night Qatar Cruise. During the deployment, the Resorts World One will provide exciting new vacation options from Dubai for the weekend with the 2-Night Sir Bani Yas Weekend Cruise departing Fridays. Guests can also look forward to the 2-Night Doha (Qatar) Cruise departing Wednesdays and the 3-Night Muscat-Khasab (Oman) Cruise departing Sundays. For longer cruises, guests may combine the itineraries to become a 4-, 5- and 7-Night cruise.

“We have been counting down the days and we are delighted that the Resorts World One has arrived in Dubai and is ready to sail. We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the local and regional governments, authorities, travel business partners, media and our guests for the support. We are looking forward to bringing unique experiences to the Gulf region and we are excited to launch our first cruise with a special onboard Diwali celebration for the entire week,” said Michael Goh, President, Resorts World Cruises.

Saud Hareb Almheiri, Cruise Tourism & Yachting Lead at the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), said: “Dubai extends its warmest congratulations to Resorts World Cruises on the successful launch of its new services, which it is proud to be the homeport for. This significant development underscores Dubai's ongoing growth as a premier cruise destination, attracting world-class operators, and providing exceptional experiences for global travellers seeking to explore the region, as envisioned by our leadership, and in line with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, to further consolidate Dubai’s position as a leading global city for business and leisure. As we embark on an exciting new season, we would like to extend our gratitude to our partners and stakeholders, whose unwavering support has made this possible. Together, we look forward to further reinforcing Dubai’s position as the cruise hub of the region.”

The Resorts World One is certified by the highly reputable Organisation of Islamic Cooperation and The Standards and Metrology Institute with the ship offering certified Halal cuisines, including vegetarian / Jain cuisine; and Muslim-friendly onboard offerings, which will provide peace of mind for Muslim guests from the Gulf and across the region.