Cruise Line News

In a magnificent launch event, the new Cunard Queen Anne embarked on her inaugural voyage from Southampton on the evening of May 3, 2024. The event drew thousands of spectators and was marked by a dazzling fireworks display. This historic sail marks the beginning of Queen Anne's service, anticipated to herald a new era in luxury ocean cruising.

New Zealand's cruise industry is experiencing a strong revival, as passenger numbers in 2023 soared to 80% of pre-pandemic levels. The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) reported that approximately 86,300 New Zealanders embarked on ocean cruises this year, marking a substantial comeback after years of disruption.

An extensive search operation is currently underway for Edmond Bradley Solomon, a 66-year-old cruise passenger who went missing during a stop in Cozumel, Mexico. Solomon, who was traveling on Royal Caribbean International's Icon of the Seas, disembarked in Cozumel on April 3, 2024, and failed to return before the ship's departure. Given Solomon's diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia, which affects communication and complex cognitive functions, the urgency to locate him is particularly high.

Seabourn Cruise Line has announced the availability of four exclusive segments from its 2026 World Cruise aboard the Seabourn Sojourn. These segments, ranging from 20 to 48 days, offer travelers the opportunity to experience parts of the grand 129-day voyage, which will explore 63 destinations across 14 countries and navigate through 28,000 nautical miles.

Key Highlights of the 2026 World Cruise Segments:

HX, previously known as Hurtigruten, is revolutionizing the expedition cruising experience by introducing an all-inclusive offering across its entire fleet. This strategic move aims to enhance the onboard experience for guests, aligning HX with the luxury and convenience found in ultra-luxury expedition cruise lines like Silverseas and Seabourn.