Top Headlines

Explora Journeys and Fincantieri celebrate triple milestone in Genoa

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Top Headlines Top Headlines; Published: 09 March 2026 09 March 2026

Explora Journeys, the luxury ocean travel brand of the MSC Group, today celebrated another important milestone in its mission to redefine high-end hospitality at sea and further strengthen its position in the ultra-luxury travel segment.

During a triple ceremony held at Fincantieri’s Sestri Ponente shipyard in Genoa, Italy, Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman of the Cruise Division of MSC Group, was joined by Anna Nash, President of Explora Journeys, Pierroberto Folgiero, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Fincantieri, Luigi Matarazzo, General Manager of Fincantieri’s Merchant Ships Division, and local dignitaries to mark three pivotal stages in the construction of the brand’s next-generation fleet: the float out of Explora IV, the coin ceremony for Explora V, and the steel cutting of Explora VI.

This marks the third triple ceremony for Explora Journeys in just 18 months, reflecting the pace at which the brand’s six-ship fleet is taking shape. With two ships already successfully sailing at full capacity and Explora III on track for delivery and launch in July 2026, four vessels are currently under construction at Fincantieri’s Genoa shipyard.

Today’s triple event reinforces Explora Journeys’ unwavering momentum and its commitment to having six ultra-elegant ships on the water by 2028. For the first time, the entire Explora Journeys fleet now exists across different stages of development, reflecting the brand’s ability to deliver an ambitious vision at pace. Each ship is an emblem of Italian shipbuilding, introducing design innovations and technological improvements that push the boundaries of excellence at sea while generating significant economic and employment benefits for the country.

“For the first time, all six ships in our fleet are either in service or under construction — a defining moment as we bring the ‘Ocean State of Mind’ to life on an even greater scale,” said Anna Nash, President of Explora Journeys. “These ships realise the Aponte-Vago family's vision of an experience where the ocean itself becomes the destination — inviting wellbeing, discovery and a deeper connection with the ocean. As our fleet grows, we are introducing more discerning guests to a new expression of luxury ocean travel — one that stands in a category of its own and challenges the idea that luxury must always be anchored to land, instead finding its home on the horizon.

This vision is further expressed through Explora Journeys’ new cinematic global campaign, Explore the Ocean State of Mind, unveiled in New York last month. Developed by McCann Paris and brought to life by award-winning director Jonas Lindstroem, it challenges traditional cruise conventions and invites a new generation of affluent travelers to rethink luxury travel. Framing each ship as a five-star floating hotel where the ocean itself becomes the destination, the concept reinforces Explora Journeys’ position in a category of its own, transcending the boundaries between traditional cruises and land-based luxury.

While the ceremony honored the cherished maritime traditions that define the shipbuilding process, it also celebrated the future of Explora Journeys’ next-generation fleet and the brand’s vision for ultra-luxury ocean travel. Two godmothers were appointed for the coin ceremony of Explora V: Captain Serena Melani, representing Explora Journeys, and Alice Gallo from Fincantieri at the Sestri Ponente shipyard. Captain Serena served as the first Master of both Explora I and Explora II, making a significant contribution to the brand’s success, and she will also serve as the Master of Explora III. Additionally, Cristina Bacigalupo from the Fincantieri’s shipyard outfitting workshop in Sestri Ponente served as the godmother for the technical launch of Explora IV, representing the expert craftsmanship behind the ship’s construction.

A legacy in motion

The €3.5 billion investment in Explora Journeys’ six-ship fleet represents a cornerstone of MSC Group’s broader commitment to the Italian maritime sector. When combined with the four MSC Cruises ships previously built by Fincantieri, the Group’s total investment in the shipyard reaches approximately €7 billion. This collaboration continues to uphold an uncompromising standard of seafaring artistry and technical prestige, ensuring that Explora Journeys remains at the forefront of the industry.

The momentum now turns to the highly anticipated Explora III, set to be delivered ahead of schedule this July. Following her delivery, she will embark on a Mediterranean Prelude Journey ahead of its naming ceremony on August 1 at MSC’s new cruise terminal in Barcelona.

With Explora IV and V scheduled to enter service in 2027 and Explora VI following in 2028, each new ship will continue to integrate the highest standards of craftsmanship and innovation.

Environmental features of the Explora fleet

As part of the MSC Group’s Cruise Division, Explora Journeys is committed to taking meaningful, measurable actions that have a long-term positive impact. The Cruise Division is working towards achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 for its marine operations by investing in new technology, improving operational efficiency and advancing renewable fuels.

Renewable fuels are a key part of this decarbonization strategy. Explora Journeys considers LNG a fuel that facilitates a direct transition towards drop-in bio-LNG and synthetic LNG, which have the potential to reduce well-to-wake greenhouse gas emissions by more than 80%.

Explora III will be the first ship in the fleet with LNG-powered capabilities, reflecting the brand’s efforts to decarbonize its marine operations. Explora IV, V and VI are also being designed with LNG-powered capabilities.

All Explora ships are equipped with shore power capabilities, allowing them to switch off their engines and connect to the local electricity grid while in port, thereby eliminating direct emissions.

Explora Journeys also has a project underway to examine the capability of a large fuel cell transforming LNG into hydrogen and significantly reducing emissions. Explora V will be built to allow for a potential retrofit of the technology in the future whilst Explora VI will be delivered with a fuel cell on board.

American Cruise Lines launches Celebrating 250 Years of America campaign

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Top Headlines Top Headlines; Published: 10 February 2026 10 February 2026

American Cruise Lines today announced its Celebrating 250 Years of America campaign. This year, the company will honor America’s Semiquincentennial on all 2026 sailings exploring the nation’s iconic rivers and domestic waterways in 35 states from Alaska to Florida. The campaign includes commemorative 250th recognition on board ships, enhanced enrichment programming, and special guest experiences, including celebratory events throughout the year.

To honor America’s milestone birthday, American Cruise Lines has introduced a branded 250th logo and badge. This year, the company’s 250th logo will be prominently displayed on the bow of every ship as American’s fleet cruises over 500,000 miles along U.S. waterways, visiting 160 U.S. ports of call – from sea to shining sea. On embarkation days, the company’s ships will also display huge American flags draped over the side, welcoming guests aboard for a patriotic adventure.

American’s crew uniforms have been adorned with the new celebratory badges, and American’s 250th campaign logos appear prominently on the website and across 2026 advertising and marketing. The company has also created a line of 250th collectible pins and other Semiquincentennial keepsake gifts for guests sailing throughout 2026.

On board, American’s cruises will offer Semiquincentennial programming and added fun for guests, from a 250th-inspired game show to daily announcements of U.S. historical trivia, and patriotic Red, White & Blue-themed cocktail parties and desserts. The company has even developed its own American 250 signature cocktail menu featuring The Spirit of 1776 and more. The Celebrating 250 Years of America campaign will also highlight American Cruise Lines-produced patriotic videos and special ceremonies honoring veterans.

On shore, guests will enjoy included excursions at every port-of-call, and throughout 2026, additional opportunities abound. Many cities that American’s ships regularly visit are hosting major events like Sail 250’s maritime celebrations in New York City, Boston, Baltimore, and Norfolk. Opportunities to take in scenic views from American’s small ships will be extraordinary. Historical sites and museums are featuring exhibits honoring the 250th, and American’s guests will have the opportunity to enjoy these extra experiences around the country, from major 250th exhibits at the Smithsonian in Washington, D.C., to boutique exhibitions at smaller museums like the Wrangell Museum in Alaska.

Over the 4th of July, celebrations on American’s cruises will be even more memorable, as guests will enjoy fireworks displays and patriotic events everywhere the company’s small ships are sailing. Guests aboard the Line’s 52-Day Great United States Cruise will take in the massive fireworks display over Boston Harbor – the site of the Boston Tea Party which ignited the American Revolution and ultimately led to the Declaration of Independence in 1776.

For over 50 years, American Cruise Lines has been dedicated to sharing America’s story on the finest American ships. There is no better way to celebrate the country’s history, geographic beauty, and cultural tapestry, than to cruise through it all with American Cruise Lines.

Port of Los Angeles selects Pacific Cruise Terminals, LLC as developer and operator of two cruise terminals

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Top Headlines Top Headlines; Published: 22 January 2026 22 January 2026

The Port of Los Angeles has announced that Pacific Cruise Terminals, LLC (PCT), a joint venture between Carrix, Inc. and JLC Infrastructure, has been selected as the developer and operator of the future Outer Harbor cruise terminal. PCT will also take on redevelopment and operation of the existing World Cruise Center on the Port’s Main Channel.

“This new Outer Harbor cruise terminal and World Cruise Center redevelopment will allow us to capture more of the rapidly growing cruise business, while also establishing Los Angeles as the primary West Coast gateway for cruise operations,” said Port Executive Director Gene Seroka. “This project will also be a huge win for our Port communities, who will greatly benefit from the economic activity generated by such significant public and private investment in our LA Waterfront.”

Each cruise ship call at the Port of Los Angeles generates approximately $1.3 million in local economic activity. In 2025, the Port welcomed 241 cruise calls and a record 1.6 million passengers.

The forthcoming state-of-the-art Outer Harbor cruise terminal will be developed by PCT to accommodate the newest and most environmentally sustainable cruise ships arriving in Los Angeles. In addition, the proposed cruise terminal development is envisioned as a significant community asset, offering open spaces, recreational facilities, and enhanced access to the LA Waterfront for both residents and visitors.

Carrix is one of the world’s largest independent marine and intermodal terminal operators and North America’s leading cruise terminal operator. Together with its partners, Carrix has a long track record in collaborating to develop large-scale infrastructure projects while enjoying a deep-rooted history in Southern California across containerized cargo and cruise terminal operations.

“Carrix is proud to have been selected by the Port of Los Angeles as the lead partner for the development of the Outer Harbor cruise terminal and the redevelopment of the World Cruise Center,” said Uffe Ostergaard, CEO of Carrix. “We believe our deep experience with large maritime infrastructure projects such as this will contribute to a significant economic return for both the Port and the greater Harbor community.”

“Pacific Cruise Terminals is honored to have the opportunity to develop and operate these transformative cruise facilities at the Port of Los Angeles,” said Stefano Borzone, president of Carrix’s cruise division. “In response to the growing demand for cruise vacations, cruise ship operators have committed to an unprecedented new build program, introducing larger and more technologically advanced ships to the market. This exceptional new cruise center will be instrumental in positioning Los Angeles as a premier homeport and one of the leading cruise gateways on the West Coast.”

JLC Infrastructure has assets under management of approximately $2.3 billion and currently manages investments in the transportation, energy, and communications sectors. JLC’s existing transportation investments include MasParc & Mobility, LLC, the exclusive operator of parking systems at Northeastern University, the LAX Airport Cargo Modernization Project, and the New Terminal One project at John F. Kennedy International Airport.

“We are excited about this opportunity to partner with Carrix and the Port of Los Angeles. This project supports our strategy to invest in critical infrastructure that contributes to the growth of the surrounding communities,” said Marlon Smith, managing director at JLC. “Los Angeles is a strategic location to support increasing demand for Pacific Coast cruise operations. We expect that the incremental tourism generated from cruise operations and the reimagined waterfront will produce meaningful benefit to the Port, local business, and the community as a whole.”

Norwegian Cruise Line presents the all-new Norwegian Aura

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Top Headlines Top Headlines; Published: 15 January 2026 15 January 2026

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) today unveiled and opened for sale Norwegian Aura, the longest and largest vessel in its fleet, which will homeport in Miami beginning in June 2027 following her debut in Europe in late May 2027.

Setting a new standard in size and scale for NCL’s fleet, Norwegian Aura will be almost 1,130 feet long, 169,000 gross tons and will accommodate 3,840 guests at double occupancy. Norwegian Aura will be 10% larger than her predecessors Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Luna and has been thoughtfully designed to deliver curated, family-focused experiences, complemented with reimagined guest favorites. At the center of the action is the all-new Ocean Heights, an open-air activities complex that shifts from fun by day to a vibrant, laid-back atmosphere at night, creating a lively space for the whole family.

Offering 7-night cruises to the Caribbean, each of Norwegian Aura’s voyages in the region will visit either Harvest Caye, NCL’s resort-style destination in Belize, or Great Stirrup Cay, the Company’s private island in the Bahamas, which recently received several enhancements. As of late 2025, all-new guest experiences opened on Great Stirrup Cay, including the Great Life Lagoon – a sprawling pool area with swim-up bars, premium loungers and a dedicated kids’ splash area – as well as Vibe Shore Club, an adults-only area with a private bar and premium lounge seating. Later in 2026, ahead of Norwegian Aura’s 2027 sailings, the island will debut the nearly six-acre Great Tides Waterpark with 19 waterslides, industry-first cliffside jumps and a dynamic river, as well as new adventure excursions.

“We are proud to introduce the newest, and largest, addition to our fleet, Norwegian Aura,” said Harry Sommer, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. "Norwegian Aura represents the evolution of Norwegian Cruise Line and the celebration of bringing together families, friends and travelers from around the world. With brilliance and connection at her core, the ship was created to give all guests the freedom to vacation their very own way – offering the chance to exhale, connect and effortlessly escape into the moment. We look forward to this next milestone and can’t wait for guests to experience all that Norwegian Aura has to offer.”

Norwegian Aura is currently being built by renowned Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri with interior designs across the ship created by world-class architects such as AD Associates, Piero Lissoni, Rockwell Group, SMC Design and Studio DADO.

Ocean Heights

Spanning decks 18 to 21, the first-in-the-fleet Ocean Heights will be the ultimate hub for fun, action and relaxation for the whole family. The sprawling activity zone will combine brand-new attractions for NCL with reimagined favorites, transforming from day to night using immersive lighting and LED projections.

Norwegian Aura will boast the most slides of any NCL ship, with five located in the sweeping open-air complex, Ocean Heights. Eclipse Racers are the Brand’s first dueling mat racer waterslides, stretching over 400 feet for an exciting head-to-head competition for illuminating wet-and-wild fun in tubular slides. For more thrills, guests can head over to the Aura Free Fall, a drop-in body waterslide where the floor opens up below and plunges guests down 250 feet of exhilarating twists and turns. The Wave is a lotus waterslide, a pendulum-style raft attraction that accommodates groups of up to four guests to ride together through 300 feet of pure fun. Lastly, the returning guest favorite, The Drop, is the Prima Class signature dry slide that rushes guests down 10 decks – from deck 18 to eight.

Designed for adventure seekers, Ocean Heights will also feature an 82-foot Aura Ropes Course complete with exhilarating challenges paired with breathtaking top-deck ocean views. Additional experiences include a 25-foot Rock Climbing Wall; Aura Midway, an amusement park-style outdoor area where guests will enjoy a variety of carnival-like games; a nine-hole mini golf course; NCL’s first-ever overhanging private cabanas overlooking Vibe Beach Club; and a bar for guests to sip on their favorite beverages.

Ocean Boulevard

Located on deck eight, Ocean Boulevard is the signature Prima Class outdoor promenade that wraps around the entirety of the ship and provides guests opportunities to relax while enjoying endless water views. Aboard Norwegian Aura, the area has been extended by 11% compared to Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Luna, offering additional space, more seating, as well as debuting activities and amenities, including new hot tubs and a brand-new bar. An expanded Infinity Beach will provide the ultimate hub for relaxation with luxe day beds and wading pools, perfect for afternoon siestas.

Additionally, Ocean Boulevard will feature dedicated activities for children and teenagers flanked on either side of the forward end of the ship. Located port side, Adventure Alley is designed for kids aged six to 10 and offers stimulating crawl spaces and twisting tunnels in an imaginative seascape setting overlooking the ocean; while starboard side, the Teen Hangout provides an exclusive retreat for teenagers to relax, socialize and capture memories at the striking wave and surf photo wall. Lastly, for younger guests aged two to six, Little Explorer's Cove playground is situated at the bow and features a playhouse with two slides and more.

Next-level poolside experience

Guests aboard Norwegian Aura will enjoy more ways than ever to relax, refresh, and soak up the sun in the ship’s expanded and enhanced spaces. Over 20% larger than Norwegian Aqua’s and Norwegian Luna’s pool decks, that of Norwegian Aura’s will be the largest in the NCL fleet with more seating capacity, an additional infinity hot tub, a larger LED entertainment screen and extra open lounge areas to ensure every guest enjoys the heart of the ship in comfort.

The adventure continues on the top decks with Norwegian Aura’s Kids’ Aqua Park, with splash pad and interactive water features within proximity to Ocean Heights on deck 18. Nearby are two family-fun waterslides – the Party Slide, a wide and shallow slide perfect for families and friends to enjoy together, and the Infinity Loop, a figure-eight slide that wraps around the Party Slide. On deck 19, guests will enjoy outdoor lawn games and seating at Horizon Park.

Vibe Beach Club, NCL’s exclusive adults-only retreat, will be 15% larger than those found aboard Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Luna, providing increased seating, infinity hot tubs, expanded decompressing areas and a waterfall feature. With additional sun loungers, daybeds and a bar as its focal point, Vibe Beach Club will provide the ultimate setting for relaxation at sea.

The Haven

Norwegian Aura will boast 1,976 staterooms ranging from studios to suites, of which 159 make up the keycard access-only complex, The Haven by Norwegian. The luxury offering aboard Norwegian Aura will include 30% more suites than previous Prima Class ships and the most in the fleet. Designed by renowned Italian designer Piero Lissoni, The Haven suites blend sophisticated design with sweeping sea views and are crafted for optimal privacy and convenience with exclusive private elevator access. The Haven complex features a dedicated sundeck complete with a panoramic infinity pool, two hot tubs and an outdoor sauna and cold room. It also offers the dedicated The Haven bar and lounge, and The Haven Restaurant, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Notably, Studio DADO, longtime partners of Norwegian Cruise Line, designed the private lounge, restaurant and outdoor deck to emulate a tranquil oasis that immerses guests into the world’s natural beauty with earth tones, a lush canopy of trees and delicate finishes.

Hull art

Signature to the NCL fleet, Norwegian Aura will feature a standout hull art design created by international artist Rosie Woods, known for her large-scale murals and collaborations with global brands. Woods’ work is defined by flowing, light-driven forms that explore movement, energy and illumination. Her design for the vessel draws inspiration from celestial light and bioluminescent seas, creating a modern interpretation of how light interacts with water.

Reflecting on her work for Norwegian Aura, Rosie Woods said, “I’m thrilled to partner with Norwegian Cruise Line, who has been known for showcasing beautiful, cutting-edge hull art designs.. I’m so excited to see my large-scale piece of artwork come to life, sail across the seas and illuminate day and night.”

From the Mediterranean to Miami

Prior to homeporting in Miami for her inaugural season in June 2027, Norwegian Aura will sail a seven-day Mediterranean voyage from Trieste, Italy to Barcelona, Spain on May 21, 2027 with calls to Valletta, Malta; as well as Salerno and Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy. Following her 14-day transatlantic voyage, she will commence her season of Caribbean cruises from Miami. From June 2027 through October 2027, Norwegian Aura will sail seven-day Eastern Caribbean voyages with calls to quintessential island destinations, including Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; and the Brand’s newly enhanced private island in the Bahamas, Great Stirrup Cay. In winter 2027/28, Norwegian Aura will offer seven-day Western Caribbean voyages taking guests to lush, tropical destinations like Roatan (Islas de la Bahia), Honduras; Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico; as well as Harvest Caye, NCL’s resort-style private destination off the Belizean coast.

PortMiami, Royal Caribbean Group, and partners breaks ground for new Cruise Terminal G

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Top Headlines Top Headlines; Published: 09 January 2026 09 January 2026

Yesterday, Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners, PortMiami Director and CEO Hydi Webb, and Royal Caribbean Group Chairman and CEO Jason Liberty led a groundbreaking ceremony for the future new Cruise Terminal G at PortMiami.

Delivered by Lemartec-NV2A Joint Venture, in partnership with Perez & Perez Architects & Planners, the project involves the design-build delivery of a state-of-the-art cruise terminal for Royal Caribbean Group designed to meet LEED certification and the capacity to accommodate up to 7,000 passengers. The new terminal will include a multi-level parking garage, an intermodal facility, and other critical infrastructure to support large cruise ships such as the Icon-class vessels.

“This world-class facility will enhance Miami-Dade County’s skyline while marking another milestone in PortMiami’s evolution. Our modern terminals are transforming how we do business and move people, delivering greater efficiency through innovative technology," said Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava.

With a total investment of $345 million, this world-class complex will be dedicated to Royal Caribbean Group while maintaining multi-vessel functionality. Designed as a single-berth terminal, it will enable efficient embarkation and disembarkation through the integration of the latest advancements in cruise terminal construction, energy efficiency, and a unique user experience.

“Cruise Terminal G represents a major investment in Miami’s future. Built with advanced technology and sustainable design, this new facility will deliver a smarter, faster, more seamless experience for guests sailing with our industry-leading brands: Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea. It reflects what matters most to us: innovation, collaboration, and delivering the world’s best vacations responsibly – while creating jobs and supporting the local economy for years to come," said Royal Caribbean Group Chairman and CEO Jason Liberty.

Beyond enhancing Miami’s leadership in the global cruise industry, the new terminal’s iconic architecture will contribute to the evolving skyline of PortMiami and align with the growing trend of landmark waterfront structures that connect the city and the sea. The project adds significant value to the PortMiami’s existing terminal infrastructure and delivers a product that strengthens Miami’s position as the Cruise Capital of the World.

The future Cruise Terminal G is slated for completion in late 2027.

Funding for the new Terminal G at PortMiami is provided through a partnership between Miami-Dade County and Royal Caribbean Group. The new Terminal G focuses on delivering a more streamlined and seamless experience for cruise passengers. The investment strengthens Miami's position as a global cruise leader and helps maintain its economic significance. The project is a strategic investment to meet future demand and accommodate new generations of cruise ships.