Destination Development on a Global Scale!
---------- WEEK 29 ----------
France's Avignon named the top cruise destination in the world
Cruise Critic, an online guide for cruise travellers, has announced the winners of its fourth annual Cruisers’ Choice Destination Awards, naming the top cruise destinations across 18 regions worldwide. Avignon, France is the Most Popular Cruise Destination – receiving the highest ratings among cruise destinations across the globe. The city — a port of call on river itineraries – was also named the Best European River Cruise Destination. Glacier Bay, Alaska continues to be one of the world’s most popular cruise destinations, named the top-rated destination in Alaska for the fourth year in a row is considered one of the best locations for glacier and wildlife viewing, particularly with its famously photogenic Margerie Glacier. King’s Wharf, Bermuda named the Best Eastern Caribbean, Bahamas and Bermuda Cruise Destination – was also the highest-rated destination across the entire Caribbean, including islands in the Western Caribbean and Southern Caribbean. Disney Cruise Line’s Castaway Cay, Bahamas remains the most highly-rated cruise line private island, scooping the award for Best Cruise Line Private Island for the fourth year in a row.
Lerwick a top cruise destination by popular acclaim
Lerwick has been recognised as a top destination in Cruise Critic’s annual survey based on consumer ratings sent to the world’s leading cruise review website. Covering 18 regions around the globe, the Cruisers’ Choice Destination Awards ranked Lerwick in the top five in the British Isles and Western Europe category. Lerwick Port Authority Cruise Manager, Melanie Henderson, said: “To be placed third in the category is another great accolade, bringing more international recognition that Lerwick and Shetland are providing what passengers and cruise operators are looking for. “On top of Lonely Planet’s recent praise for the islands, it’s another tremendous boost for everyone involved in attracting and servicing the highly-competitive cruise sector.” Shetland was named in travel authority Lonely Planet’s top ten must-see European destinations for 2019, the only UK location included. Lauren Doughton, Project Manager at Promote Shetland said: "We’re thrilled that Shetland has been recognised as one of the best places in Britain and Western Europe for cruise passengers to visit. The fact that the awards are voted for by the passengers themselves, based on their positive experiences in Shetland, is testament to the warm welcome and first-class facilities they find when they arrive here." Cruise Critic reviews relating to Lerwick and Shetland include: "After a half day tour of the lighthouse, Viking ruins and watching seals, we then had a walk through the town of Lerwick which shows both the beautiful old town and a new modern area.” “Definitely the highlight of the cruise, we loved Lerwick and Shetland. Beautiful island with lovely friendly local people.” “We had a great time in Lerwick.” The top five places in the British Isles and Western Europe category included Kirkwall, at number one; Cork; Amsterdam and Bruges. Ms Henderson said: “It’s an honour to share the award with these destinations, especially neighbouring Kirkwall which means a fantastic double for the Northern Isles of Orkney and Shetland.”
Source: Cruise Europe
Port of Keelung eyeing 1M cruise ship visitors in 2020
The number of cruise tourists visiting Port Keelung (Taiwan) is expected to exceed 1 million in 2020. The state-run seaport management company Taiwan International Port Corp made the announcement on July 16, 2019, as Majestic Princess returned from her final cruise for 2019 to her homeport Keelung. Company's Keelung branch said that the cruise liner served a total of 217,236 passengers since April 15, marking 8.4% increase compared with the same period in 2018. The cruise operator has estimated that its number of cruisers would increase by 90,000 in 2020. As Majestic Princess ended her season, Sun Princess starts turnaround operations from Sunday, July 21, to the 2nd half of September. According to Taiwan International Port Corp statistics, the number of cruise passengers visiting Keelung has risen from around 560,000 in 2015 to a total of 660,000 in 2016, 820,000 in 2017 and 940,000 in 2018. The number of cruise passengers could reach between 930,000-950,000 in 2019, the port company said, adding they would contribute up to NT$5 billion (US$160.9 million) to the economy of the city. It added that the number of cruise passengers could potentially exceed 1 million.
Source: Cruise Mapper
Kristiansand Expects 100,000 Guest Season
"We expect 56 port calls, and approximately 100,000 passengers," said Mathias Bernander, chief marketing officer at the Port of Kristiansand. Business is up over 2018, and 2020 is charging toward a port record that was set when the city saw 76 visits in 2014. It is also one of the few ports in Europe with a shorepower connection. Vessels that can plug into the port’s shorepower receive berth priority during the reservation process.,” Bernander said. “Built in 1641, Kristiansand is a picturesque town with beautiful wooden buildings, a neo-gothic cathedral, and a large selection of cafes and shops. Go for a downtown walk, wander off into the nearby forests, or take a short bus ride to Norway’s largest zoo, a century-old steam locomotive, museums, moose safari, and much more. “We believe our region has a lot to offer, and we believe that the cruise industry is an important part of our region’s future. However, exceptions of a more sustainable cruise industry are key factors to our success. Our strategy is to offer the best of modern- and environmental-friendly infrastructure to the cruise lines.”
Source: Cruise Industry News
Sureste Properties goes for cruise port growth in the Philippines
The owner of Manila’s Solaire Cruise Center project, Sureste Properties, Inc, formed Bloomberry Cruise Terminals Inc (BCTI) to manage and operate both Solaire Cruise Center, a two-berth pier fronting Manila Bay, and a second cruise port being developed in Salomague at Ilocus in the northern Philippines. Sureste Properties is owned by billionaire Enrique K. Razon Jr, who is also chairman and CEO of the Manila-listed International Container Terminal Services. Guillaume Lucci, senior adviser to both of BCTI’s cruise terminal projects, told Seatrade Cruise News Salomague will begin with tender operations from a safe anchorage just off the port. The project will be completed by the first week of October. Passengers will embark/disembark from boats to a custom-built floating tender berth. Sureste Properties was awarded a 10-year lease from the Philippines Port Authority after a public bidding process. For Solaire Cruise Center, an environmental compliance certificate from the Department of Natural Resources and Environment was obtained in May, allowing the project to progress. Two berths — one for ships up to 365mtr and the other 345mtr — will be built to handle large cruise ships including Royal Caribbean’s Oasis class and Genting’s Global class, currently under construction. An additional two mooring dolphins include a wider inner berth to accommodate homeporting. It will be the first dedicated cruise berth in the country, offering the Philippines much needed infrastructure to grow cruise tourism. The planned cruise center within the Solaire Resort will blend seamlessly with the company’s expanded destination offering, adding another facet to its integrated gaming, entertainment, dining and leisure experience. Solaire Resort & Casino comes under Bloomberry Resorts Corporation, a public company listed on the Philippine Stock Exchange. The company’s flagship property, Solaire Resort & Casino, is a US$1.2bn integrated destination resort on an 8.3-hectare site in Manila. Salomague port’s proximity from homeports in Hong Kong and South China is a plus. The port is also within 30 minutes’ drive of the historic colonial city of Vigan, and nearby attractions and beaches in Ilocus Norte and Ilocus Sur.
Source: Seatrade Cruise News
Spirit of Discovery arrives at the Port of Tyne
The Port of Tyne has welcomed almost 1,000 visiting passengers and over 500 crew on-board Spirit of Discovery as she embarked upon her maiden voyage. The ship, which arrived on Friday 12 July, will berth at Northumbrian Quay in North Shields. In-bound from Dover, the Port of Tyne is Spirit of Discovery’s first port of call on her 13-night maiden cruise showcasing the best of Britain. Passengers will disembark the Port of Tyne’s International Passenger Terminal to explore all that the North East has to offer, including shore excursions to Bamburgh, Durham, Hadrian’s Wall, the Holy Island of Lindisfarne and Newcastle – all within easy reach of the Port. Sven Richards, operations manager, vessels at the Port of Tyne, said: “We are delighted to welcome Spirit of Discovery on her maiden voyage, and proud that the Port of Tyne will be her first port of call. We hope that visiting passengers enjoy their day, taking advantage of all that the region has to offer — right here from the Port of Tyne!”
Source: Travel Daily Media
New ferry to increase visitor numbers to Robben Island
Robben Island (in Table Bay, located west of Cape Town's Bloubergstrand suburb) is expected to increase passenger shipping traffic by 270 via new catamaran-type ferryboat. The ship, that arrived on Friday, July 12, is named Krotoa to honour island's first female political prisoner. According to Ellerick Olckers, visitor operations specialist at Robben Island Museum, it was of critical importance that they prepared for peak periods months in advance. That enabled the organisation "to be ready in terms of resource acquisition, training of staff, increasing ferry capacity, and retail requirement planning." MS Krotoa has passenger capacity 285, GT-tonnage 319 tons and cruising speed 28.5 knots (53 kph) when fully loaded. The ferry is scheduled to make her maiden voyage after being given the all-clear by South African Maritime Safety Authority. Robben Island Museum revealed previously that many tours had to be cancelled last year due to a lack of vessels able to operate in rough seas and, as a result, visitor numbers declined. Thandi ferry sank with 70 people on board back in 2017.
Source: Cruise Mapper
Harlingen - the place to be in summer
With two weeks before the inaugural call of FTI Cruises Berlin, the holiday season of the historical town of Harlingen, Friesland region of northern Holland is in full swing. As the gateway to the regional capital Leeuwarden, European City of Culture last year and only just over an hour from Amsterdam for those that can tear themselves away from this beautiful open air museum of the Dutch golden age of shipping, Harlingen offers so many choices for visiting cruise guests. Reached by the Wadden Sea, a World Heritage Site since 2009 and home to a host of flora and fauna, as well as 10 million wading birds each year, Harlingen is perfect for small, expedition or luxury cruise ships up to 160 m in length. Cruise ship passengers always receive a friendly welcome for dignitaries and locals alike. Shortly after receiving Berlin, Harlingen receives long-time partner Compagnie du Ponant, this time with a maiden call from its new ship Le Dumont D’Urville. Harlingen features on the ship’s special themed “History, Art and Architecture” itinerary, commencing in Copenhagen and finishing in Honfleur, Normandy. Guests will have the chance to visit the internationally renowned Groninger Museum, as an alternative to the world’s oldest planetarium, the “Cathedral of Steam”, a monument to the Dutch historical battle against the water, or the 400 year old Harlingen Earthenware and Tile Factory, a short walk through the town from the ship. Harlingen is also increasingly important as a river cruise stop over. “Harlingen is such a great place to be around, particularly during the summer. We remain fully flexible to work with tour operators and cruise lines to enhance Harlingen’s reputation as a must-visit port of call. We also look forward to May next year for the call of Plantours’ Hamburg.”
Source: Cruise Europe
Haifa Port builds bridges with neighbouring Arab countries
Haifa Port has launched a new website that combines six microsites, covering the Port’s activities in three languages: Hebrew, Arabic and English. Real time information on the cruise sector, tourism and cargo shipping is available on the site. The website covers the port’s activities in the Arab countries, neighbouring Israel and Jordan and the progress of the port’s Waterfront Plans. To improve local tourism to Israel the Valley Railway project running from the Port of Haifa to the Jordanian border and beyond has gone underway. Zohar Rom, port spokesman and manager of communications and the cruise sector spoke of the sites’ multilingual availability as a way to reach out to neighbouring countries: ‘The fact that the Port is fully localised for English and Arabic is an important message to the Port’s customers in Israel and in our neighbouring countries. It is a clear, unmistakable statement that the Port is determined to become the main gateway into the Middle East’. The main information on the website is updated in all three languages but also has some information in ten other languages.
Source: Seatrade Cruise News
£38M funding approved for Isle of Man Ferry Terminal
Manx government funding was approved for a GBP 38 million passenger ferry terminal in Liverpool despite costs growing by over 1/5. The project, which received planning permission in April 2019, will cost GBP 6.5 million more than originally estimated as the need for "additional structural and construction work" on the site and the quay walls were blamed for putting up costs. The investment was approved despite a bid to adjourn the debate.The new ferry terminal will be able to accommodate up to 200 vehicles and 1,000 passengers. The facility, that is due to open in March 2021, will be constructed at Princes Half Tide Dock, around 2200 ft (670 m) from the existing terminal at Pier Head. When finished, the terminal is to be leased to Isle of Man Steam Packet Company.
Source: Cruise Mapper
---------- WEEK 28 ----------
Docking cruise ship facilities in Paphos tabled
The building of a pier for the docking of cruise ships is due to be incorporated into a study to be conducted for Port Paphos' marina. The proposal for marina's development was presented by Savvas Perdios, Cyprus' deputy minister of tourism, at a meeting on Tuesday, July 9, chaired by Vassiliki Anastassiadou, island's Transport Minister. The proposal was positively received by all parties involved. The current proposal comes after strong objections that voiced in June by the Cyprus-based Unesco office over plans to build the pier near the castle in Paphos Harbor, where "irreversible destruction could be caused to the Unesco world heritage site that covers much of this part of Paphos." The organization demanded that a heritage impact study had to be first be undertaken before green lights are given.
Source: Cruise Mapper
Port of Tyne redesigns baggage handling facility for Marella Cruise passengersThe Port of Tyne has reconfigured part of its International Passenger Terminal in northeast England to create a new baggage handling facility for Marella Cruises. Some 300sq mtr of space at the terminal has been converted to create extra capacity for 1,000 bags and an additional 382 parking spaces have been created, alongside a 10mtr by 30mtr marquee to provide an undercover baggage handling facility. This will expedite the passenger's bag drop process, security check, and loading onto the vessel. Passengers will then head straight to a dedicated car park — streamlining the embarkation process. The Port of Tyne’s International Passenger Terminal expects 59 cruise calls this year, including 10 turnaround calls from Marella Cruises — with itineraries to Estonia, Nordic countries and Russia. The Port of Tyne has continued to experience steady growth in cruise calls over the past couple of years.
Source: Seatrade Cruise News
Aberdeen expansion leads to a brighter future
Aberdeen is a year away from being the biggest development in Scotland, Europe almost, according to Marlene Mitchell, business development manager Aberdeen Harbour. Aberdeen South Harbour is due to be completed in the summer of 2020. The multimodal port has identified the Balmoral Quay as the primary berth for cruise ships, which is close to the port exit and extensive road network to manage passenger flow efficiently. At almost 900 years, Aberdeen Harbour Board is the oldest continuously working business in the UK. This year there are just under 30 calls to Aberdeen North with ships such as Gann, Corinthian, and Sea Cloud 2 being regular visitors. Independent travelers can walk into the city center and the crew is very close to facilities.
Source: Cruise Europe
Island-hopping in the Maldives
Thanks to its marine location and due to the fact that 99.6% of the Maldives is made up of sea, the destination is a haven for cruisers and divers. Cruise lovers, divers, and swimmers can discover the Maldives’ waters and experience true Maldivian hospitality with Carpe Diem Maldives or indulge in luxury both underwater and onboard at the Scubaspa Floating Resort. Established in 2008, the MV Carpe Diem boat was completely built out of wood in the Maldives and offers travelers a liveaboard with a personal touch owing to the dedicated crew members, some of which have been with the company for many years. The Carpe Diem takes full-charter, half-charter, and individual booking requests. Diving packages are available for seven or 10 nights, with prices starting at GBP 1,313 (USD 1,665) per person when traveling from 31 August to 7 September 2019.
Source: Travel Daily Media
Kemi: Year-Round Cruise Potential
Kemi offers an all-year-round cruise destination, but only has a single call booked for 2019 and another single visit is on the calendar for 2020, said Noora Barria, experience director of Kemi Tourism / Experience365. Passengers can look forward to a year-round snow castle attraction, Barria said, built of snow and ice during the winter months. Inside, guests can find a hotel, chapel, and restaurant. The attraction is now year-round and cooled down to below freezing in the summer months. A 239-meter-long pier should be attractive to small- and medium-sized cruise ships at the Port of Ajos. “In Kemi, you will visit Lapland by the sea, the home port of Santa Claus,” said Barria. “We can arrange for Santa to meet and greet the cruise guests. We have a reindeer park, husky farm, petting zoo and traditional fishing by the longest free-flowing river in Europe.”
Source: Cruise Industry News
‘Iconic’ Greenock Cruise Visitor Center plans approved
Plans were approved for a new dedicated cruise berth, visitor center, restaurant and gallery at Greenock Ocean Terminal. As part of the outline business case, it is estimated that over 150,000 passengers could pass through Greenock Ocean Terminal delivering £26m (€29.53m) in annual visitor and crew spend to the Scottish economy. The overall project is part of the Glasgow City Region City Deal and aims to provide a new dedicated cruise berthing facility and visitor center to boost cruise ship passengers welcomed to Scotland through the Greenock facility operated by Peel Ports. The proposal for a new Wyllie Gallery showcasing the life and work of the Inverclyde resident and artist (1921-2012) will also stage important exhibitions and events celebrating contemporary artists from across Scotland and further afield. The Greenock Ocean Terminal project to create a visitor center and berthing facility are expected to cost £14.7m (€16.7m). The proposal for a new visitor center landmark building for Greenock is being developed by Richard Murphy Architects. The company has won 22 RIBA Awards. The dedicated cruise berth and visitor center is scheduled for completion in 2020.
Source: Cruise Europe
Karlskrona has dredging plans
The Unesco world heritage city of Karlskrona is situated in the middle of an archipelago, 6km from mainland Sweden. Ships up to 160m in length and 7.5m in depth can be accommodated at Handelshamnen city terminal, where the quay is 300m in length. There is a minimum under-keel clearance requirement of 0.7m. The 200m2 terminal has facilities for about 1,500 passengers. There are 20 loading bays for buses, three spots for shuttles, 50 for private vehicles and 15 for taxis. Freshwater (by pipeline at 30m3 per hour), waste removal and bunkering (by tanker) services are available. There are plans to dredge the last part of the channel and widen it in order to take ships between 230m and 250m in length. The width of the approach channel is presently 360m with a depth of 15m to 19m. There are three anchorage options, two of which have no restrictions on the length of vessel calls. The maximum authorized draught is 10m and 9m respectively. Anchorage 2 is restricted to 200m in length with a depth of 8m. The two fixed tender berths each have a depth of 2.4m and can accommodate two tenders simultaneously. This year the port is expecting three calls having received eight in 2017 and six in 2018.
Source: Cruise Europe
Venice: Seeking to Better Manage and Grow its Cruise Traffic
Venice is expecting its cruise traffic for the year to be consistent with 2018 or up slightly, according to Galliano Di Marco, managing director of Venezia Terminal Passeggeri. Last year, Venice reported 520 calls and 1,560,579 cruise passengers. With the limit on ship sizes allowed to sail past the St. Mark’s Square and along the Giudecca Canal, the port authority continues to search for an alternative approach to its facilities, which are operating far below their capacity. Also for 2019, Venice has kept its port fees unchanged for the third year in a row, according to Di Marco, in order to encourage more calls. In April, 39 cruise companies renewed their commitment to the “Venice Blue Flag Agreement,” meaning they will burn fuel of no more than 0.1 percent sulfur, not only at berth but also navigating into and out of the port. Sound emissions limitations are also being imposed on ships staying overnight at the S. Basilio terminal. In other developments, the City of Venice will start charging a landing fee on all day tourists to access the city and other smaller lagoon islands. The fee, which goes into effect on September 1, will be used to pay for maintenance and security. The initial fee will be 3 euros per tourist until December 31, 2019, when it goes up a minimum of 6 euros and a maximum of 10 euros in 2020 based on the season.
Source: Cruise Industry News
SCH extends the contract with Liverpool City Council
SCH has been awarded the contract with Liverpool City Council to handle all cruise ships calling at Liverpool Cruise Terminal (LCT) for a further three years. The agreement follows an extensive procurement and evaluation exercise and includes the option for an additional two years beyond 2021; this will mean SCH will be the cruise ship handlers when Liverpool’s new terminal opens towards the end of the 2021 season. There will be over 85 cruise ship calls to LCT this year, including those from Fred Olsen Lines, Cruise & Maritime Voyages, Disney Cruise Line, Costa Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises, Cunard Line and Princess Cruises. SCH will provide all stevedoring, including baggage-handling and stores, loading, and rope handling services, while sister company Cruise and Passenger Services also provides valet cruise parking services for passengers. Around 50 staff from Merseyside are employed for each turnaround cruise call in the port. The contract extension builds upon the previous three-year deal and underlines the company’s role as an extensive provider of cruise ship support in the UK, with operations also in Southampton and, through sister company Southern Maritime Services, in Portsmouth.
Source: Cruise Europe
Hardangerfjord will introduce EPI in Eidfjord where demand is rapidly increasing
Eidfjord will introduce port fees based on the EPI system (DNV-GL) as from January 1, 2020. Meanwhile, Ulvik and Rosendal (tender ports) have no such plans so far. Eidfjord and Ulvik are located in Hardangerfjord inside the Hardanger Bridge with an air draught of 55m, whereas Rosendal has no such restrictions. Destination news for this season includes a new lift to the Voss mountains being opened on July 8. Voss is about 45 minutes by bus from Eidfjord and Ulvik. Following a successful 2018 season, Hardanger Fjord Safari has doubled its capacity and now has two RiBs available. The new Hardanger Guide Service offers a range of shore excursion products. The demand for Eidfjord has increased dramatically. This year there will be 90 calls (nine inaugural) bringing 140,000 passengers, an increase of 5% in 2018. In 2020 121 calls (six inaugural) have been booked so far bringing 197,000 passengers, a significant rise of 40%. Due to limited capacity, Eidfjord admits a maximum of two vessels per day in port. Hence 12 days in 2019 and 21 days in 2020 are already booked. The nearby Ulvik tender port is recommended as an alternative these days. Rosendal, with no air draught limits (situated outside the Hardanger Bridge), is a tender port. This year 19 vessels with about 14,000 passengers will be welcomed. One new shore excursion which is recommended is that of snowshoe walking at Hardangervidda mountain plateau and Folgefonna glacier (from Eidfjord and Rosendal). Also highly recommended is the day tour from the port of Bergen to Hardangerfjord, which includes Steinsdal waterfall, Kabuso art gallery, and lunch at a farm restaurant or hotel buffet.
Source: Cruise Europe
---------- WEEK 27 ----------
Mo I Rana eyes more cruise traffic
Mo I Rana is better known as the Arctic Circle city and is located just south of the Arctic Circle in the Helgeland region of Nordland in Norway. While no ships are scheduled for this year, and none have called last year, two vessels are scheduled for 2020, according to a spokesperson. The port will welcome the Astor from Transocean and then Saga’s new Spirit of Discovery. One call is already on the books for 2021 as well with Phoenix Reisen’s Deutschland scheduled for a call on August 31. "We are a new port with a beautiful fjord," the spokesperson said. "Cruise ships are sheltered from the wind and bad weather." The eventual goal is to attract five to ten ships per year.
Source: Cruise Industry News
Punta Sur eco beach park: a hidden gem in Cozumel
If you’re a frequent cruiser, there’s a good chance you’ve visited Cozumel, Mexico at least once. This popular port-of-call is a staple in the Western Caribbean. Even if you think you’ve “been there, done that” in Cozumel, there’s one place you really need to see. Here’s why Punta Sur Eco Beach Park should be on your next Cozumel itinerary. Punta Sur is located on the southern tip of the island—hence the name—which means “South Point” in Spanish. The park is a 30-minute drive from the international cruise port. Our group rented a small bus with a driver. Renting a vehicle is the best option as opposed to taking a taxi; you will want transportation inside the park (Jeeps are a popular choice). The daily price of admission is reasonable at $16 USD per person and gives you access to many of the park’s amenities. The admission price felt like a steal compared to the prices in Orlando. The first stop: Celarin Lighthouse and navigation museum. The museum is a self-guided tour of the history of Cozumel, with many artifacts. However, the main attraction is venturing to the top of the lighthouse. Sweeping views of beautiful, turquoise water and rocky shorelines awaited us at the top. Then make your way to Playa Chunchacab. This is a great place to relax and enjoy a gorgeous beachfront with crystal-clear waters. Loungers and umbrellas are already set up, so all you need to do is plop down and take in the view. Hungry? Bring some extra cash to enjoy the delicious classic Mexican cuisine like tacos, nachos, and fresh seafood all while keeping our toes in the sand. Also, sip on a specialty drink— they will serve it in a freshly-picked coconut if desired. There are many other activities that are worth exploring. These include snorkeling, kayaking, boating around a lagoon, and visiting a Mayan ruin. The best part of Punta Sur isn’t the gorgeous views and great activities, but how well-maintained it is. Employees are accommodating, admission is a breeze, and there is ample parking. There are plenty of bathrooms, outdoor showers, and food options as well. Plus, small crowds left us feeling like Punta Sur Eco Beach Park was our private Cozumel oasis. While most major cruise lines offer stops in Cozumel, only some offer Punta Sur as a shore excursion. However, don’t let this deter you from visiting the park! The drive back to port will treat you to spectacular views of towering, rocky cliffs overlooking beautiful royal blue waters.
Source: Porthole Cruise
Cruise Britain’s new member Cowes announces 2019 cruise season and new land and water-based trips
Cowes Harbour Commission is extremely pleased to announce that Cowes, Isle of Wight, has six cruise ship calls booked for 2019, including four inaugural calls from some of the world’s premium luxury cruise lines. July will mark an exciting point in the development of the harbour’s cruise business; the inaugural visits to Cowes of ultra-luxury cruise ships The World, Seabourn Quest, and Silver Wind. The World, the largest private residential ship on the planet, will be the first cruise ship to pay an overnight visit to Cowes on 12th-13th July. Seabourn Quest will visit Cowes on 15th July and is the third iteration of the vessel design that has been called a “game-changer for the luxury segment”. Silversea’s intimate cruise ship Silver Wind, which had a major upgrade in December 2018, will call on 18th July. The global cruise market is currently growing at an exponential rate, and it is also excellent news that the UK is experiencing growth in ports-of-call visits. Locally, Cowes Harbour Commission has a strategic policy to contribute with stakeholders to the promotion of Cowes as a destination, including attracting increased cruise calls to Cowes. New for 2019, Cowes Harbour Commission has facilitated the development by shoreside tour operators of several new land and water-based excursions to further enhance the range of unique experiences available to cruise passengers, including for the first time tours based in and around the vibrant Cowes town. Shoreside tour operators are developing new land and water-based trips to enhance the range of authentic, exclusive and bespoke experiences for cruise passengers. New excursions that are proving popular this year include ‘A Taste of Royal Cowes’, ‘The Needles by RIB’ and ‘Ventnor Botanic Gardens’.
Source: Cruise Britain
10 best Western Caribbean Cruise Ports you should visit
Western Caribbean Cruise itineraries transport you in luxury to exotic tropical destinations and off-the-beaten-path places such as Belize City, Roatan and Progreso. Beautiful beaches and jungle-covered mountains provide excellent eco tours while Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula offers ancient Mayan ruins and cool freshwater cenotes (sinkholes).
Cozumel, Mexico Perfect for enjoying beach, catamaran or sail-and-snorkel tours. Self-drive jungle jeeps, ATVs and dune buggy tours are a fun way to explore the island with a stop for tequila tasting and time relaxing at the beach. Shore excursions also visit Chankanaab National Park with the chance to enjoy a dolphin encounter. Longer guided tours take in the archaeological Mayan Ruins at Tulum by ferry and minibus. On Cozumel, the main things to do within walking distance of the port are shopping and dining. However, if you share the cost of a local taxi with other cruisers, the island has plenty to offer. The San Gervasio Mayan Ruins, Chocolate Factory, Tequila Tasting experience and local beaches are all just a short drive from the port. Cozumel Travel Tip - cruisers with children can book a Day Pass to a private beach club or water park on Cozumel from around $24.
Grand Cayman The gorgeous island of Grand Cayman offers some unique cruise shore excursions including snorkeling and diving over a sunken WW2 wreck or swimming with stingrays. Turtle Farm Tours present butterflies, sharks and other native wildlife and visitors get to handle newly hatched turtles. There are many boat trips available in Grand Cayman including catamarans, glass bottom boats and sailboat tours or book a place on the Trolley Roger Train for a scenic tour of Georgetown. Grand Cayman has upscale shops and art galleries to browse around near the port in this banking mecca. For a longer leg-stretch, head to Seven Mile Beach on foot or by local taxi. This stunning white sandy beach has many water sports on offer. Alternatively, just sit and relax with a long fruity drink at one of the luxury resorts that overlook the beach, such as the Ritz-Carlton. Grand Cayman Travel Tip - Pick up a delicious Caribbean Rum Cake as a souvenir. You’ll find them in most gift shops on Grand Cayman. Boxed and wrapped, they stay moist for weeks.
Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico Shore excursions in Costa Maya are mainly focused on sandy beaches and watersports in the clear blue Caribbean Sea. Go snorkeling, swimming with dolphins or enjoy sailing on a private catamaran tour. Get to know more about the area with a City Walking Tour or opt for a Culinary Tour which explores Mexican history and cuisine with tastings! The Chaccoben Mayan Ruins and the amazing Lake of Seven Colors are well worth visiting as part of a cruise shore excursion. Costa Maya cruise port has a modern shopping center which includes a plaza with saltwater pools and swim-up bars – a great way to escape the heat! Local taxis will take you to some of the archaeological sites in the area. Puerto Costa Maya Travel Tip - The Dzibanche Mayan Ruins are one of the few sites where visitors can still climb up the impressive temple pyramid.
Roatan, Honduras White sandy beaches, cultural attractions and a warm welcome from locals make the island of Roatan a top choice for visitors on a Western Caribbean Cruise. Dive and snorkel in pristine waters on the world’s second longest barrier reef, swim with dolphins or take a tour of the local Iguana Farm, one of the top attractions in Roatan. Gumbalina Park packs in local wildlife, monkeys, birds, tropical gardens and a beach. Cultural tours include a scenic drive, boat trip through the mangroves and an ancestral dance performance by Native Black Carib Indians wearing colorful native costumes. Garden lovers will enjoy a shore excursion to the 40-acre Carambola Botanical Gardens with trails winding through lush greenery. Cruisers exploring independently will find plenty of duty-free shopping at the Town Center in the Port of Roatan. Handmade arts and crafts, local pottery and stunning underwater photos by Shawn Jackson make fabulous souvenirs of your visit. There are plenty of beautiful beaches nearby, including Mahogany Beach, which is reached by aerial chair lift! Roatan Travel Tip- If you like seafood, you’ll love Roatan cuisine. Try tapado, a rich and hearty stew of seafood and root vegetables cooked in coconut milk. Wash it down with an icy Port Royal beer.
Ocho Rios, Jamaica Jungle-clad mountains, rushing rivers and sugar plantations can all be experienced on shore excursions from Ocho Rios. One of the most popular organized tours is to Dunn’s River Falls, just a short drive from the port. Wear swimwear and scramble 600 feet up the rocks in the rushing waterfall. Alternatively, stay dry and watch from the open viewing platforms! Jeep tours, river rafting, zip-lining, snorkeling, ATV-ing and distillery tours can all be part of your fun Western Caribbean cruise to Jamaica. You’ll definitely hear the reggae beat and Bob Marley tunes everywhere! The town of “Ochi” has plenty of things to see and do for cruisers exploring independently. This former fishing village is friendly and safe for visitors to stroll around the shops, restaurants and beaches, although you should take the usual precautions against petty theft. Walk along the Turtle River Park or visit Shaw Park Gardens and Konoko Falls. They are all within walking distance of the port, although it’s a steep uphill climb. Ocho Rios Travel Tip - Treat yourself to some Blue Mountain coffee beans, said to be the best in the world!
Montego Bay, Jamaica Jamaica is a sizeable island and the only way to get a real taste of it is on an Island Tour with a local guide. Shore excursions from your cruise include river rafting, climbing Dunn’s River Falls or a private Jeep Tour. Go snorkeling, zip-lining and horseback riding in this beautiful island. A fascinating Plantation Tour allows you to sample honey, fresh pineapple and raw sugarcane! Jamaica has some safety issues in the cities, so if you want to explore independently you should take a taxi. Go duty-free shopping or visit the pineapple plantation. Alternatively, take a taxi to Rose Hall and enjoy the private beach, lazy river and restaurant. Montego Bay Travel Tip - Relive the movie Cool Runnings with the Montego Bay Bobsled Tour. Ride the chair lift then descend through the tropical forest aboard your own bobsled. How cool is that?
Progreso, Mexico Beautiful beaches, Mayan ruins, wildlife safaris and swimming in clear cenotes (sinkholes) can all be enjoyed on shore excursions in Progreso, Mexico. Take a City Tour and learn the history of Progreso or visit the historic city of Merida with its 500-year-old cathedral and plenty of shops. History and culture combine on a tour to one of the Mayan archaeological sites including UNESCO-listed Chichen Itza with its Kukulkan Pyramid and Ball Court. There’s a very long walk along the pier from the cruise ship and not a lot of local attractions in this newly added port of call. Enjoy some authentic Mexican cuisine in the local town or head to the beach. Progreso Travel Tip - One of the most unusual tours from Progreso is an ATV excursion to Misnebalam Ghost Town, said to be haunted, followed by time relaxing at a private beach club.
Playa del Carmen, Mexico In the heart of Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen is a superb port of call on Western Caribbean Cruises. Endless shore excursions include swimming, snorkeling, boat trips, catamaran tours etc. For something more unusual, take a trip to the caves at Rio Secreto with their amazing stalactites or take a guided tour to the Tulum Mayan Ruins overlooking the beach and blue Caribbean Sea. You can spend hours exploring the 5th Avenue shops and cantina restaurants in Playa del Carmen before relaxing on the nearby beach. Local taxis will take you to some of the freshwater cenotes nearby. Take your swimsuit and snorkeling gear and enjoy a refreshing dip surrounded by nature. Playa del Carmen Travel Tip - Families will enjoy the award-winning Xcaret Eco Theme Park, which combines animals, nature and a model Mayan village. Just 5 miles from Playa del Carmen, it includes cool water activities including a Lazy River.
Belize City, Belize Belize combines epic jungle experiences with the second longest barrier reef in the world. Snorkeling, scuba diving and helicopter tours to the Blue Hole are a must for those who love watersports, and they are surprisingly affordable in Belize. Exciting inland tours include cave tubing, rafting down a jungle river or zip-lining high above the rainforest. Hidden in the jungle are many fantastic Mayan ruins and pyramids, the most popular sites being Altun Ha and Xunantunich. One of the great advantages of exploring Belize City independently is that the official language of this former British colony is English! Most larger ships anchor offshore due to the shallow waters and cruisers have to use a tender (small motor launch) to get ashore. Explore the Shopping Village on the waterfront with the usual diamond stores, colorful bars (look for the Wet Lizard) and a Belizean Chocolate Store for edible souvenirs. Belize City is not the most attractive place to stroll around, but it has a House of Culture Museum in Government House, a cathedral and rum factory. You’ll also encounter plenty of street vendors selling everything from hair braiding services to horse and buggy rides. Belize Travel Tip - Most of Belize’s coastline is covered in mangroves so don’t expect to find any sandy beaches.
Key West, Florida There’s so much to see and do in colorful Key West, so taking a shore excursion is the best way to see it all. Fishing charters, parasailing, snorkeling and diving trips are popular along with jet ski tours, bicycling, kayaking, glass bottom boats and tall ship cruises at sunset. Cruise shore excursions include Audubon House and Gardens, Hemingway Home, the Butterfly Conservatory, Truman’s Little White House and the amazing Mel Fisher Maritime Museum with its collection of shipwreck treasures. Cruise ships dock near Mallory Square, the central hub of Key West. Street artists and performers entertain the crowds on the waterfront at the nightly Sunset Celebration in America’s southernmost city. Stroll 2 blocks to the shops, art galleries and eateries along Duval Street or take the Conch Tour Train and enjoy the commentary as you pass all the historic sites and attractions. For a day at the beach, take a 3-mile taxi ride to sandy Smathers Beach. Key West Travel Tip - Most Western Caribbean cruises call in at Key West either on the outward or return journey. This remote waterfront community is much easier to reach by sea than overland, which involves a 160-mile drive from Miami on the two-lane Overseas Highway, often at speeds of 45mph or less!
Source: Cruise Hive
The Asia Pacific overtook Europe in 2018 as the second most important passenger source
Asia Pacific has overtaken Europe as the second most important source region for cruise passengers, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd (RCCL) said in its 2018 annual report. The number of Europeans that took a cruise increased by 3.0% to 6.99 million last year, while the Asia-Pacific region experienced a 29.4% increase, to 7.00 million, RCCL said. “Industry cruise guests sourced from the Asia/Pacific region represented approximately 25% of global cruise guests in 2018. The compound annual growth rate in cruise guests sourced from this market was approximately 31% from 2014 to 2018. The Asia/Pacific region is experiencing the highest growth rate of the major regions, although it represents a relatively small sector compared to North America,” RCCL said. “Industry cruise guests sourced from Europe represented approximately 25% of global cruise guests in 2018. The compound annual growth rate in cruise guests sourced from this market was approximately 2% from 2014 to 2018,” RCCL continued. North America produced 13.0 million passengers last year, an increase of some 200,000 on the previous year, according to RCCL figures.
Source: Cruise Business
Aruba: vacation at your own pace
This spectacular island offers fun and relaxation for everyone. A palate of stunning blues and greens, the coastline of Aruba jumps out at those visiting the island for the first time. With an average temperature of 82 degrees and more sunny days than any other Caribbean island, it’s no wonder cruisers and vacationers alike are making Aruba their next trip. From enjoying a sunny day at one of the many pristine beaches to diving the magnificent shipwreck reefs or playing a round of golf at one of the island’s two pristine golf courses, Aruba allows visitors to personalize their vacation to fit their style and truly make it one to remember! It’s no secret that Aruba has some of the world’s best beaches. Just one look at the gorgeous blue water and soft sand is enough for most people to decide the beach is where they want to spend their Aruba vacation. Just minutes from the cruise port, Surfside Beach is one of the island’s most popular. Calm, turquoise waters are perfect for a swim after catching a few rays on the beach. Grab a towel and hit the beach or visit one of the many beachside clubs offering pool access, lounge chairs and plenty of refreshments. Baby Beach, located at the southern tip of the island, was made for families. The naturally-formed bay keeps the water calm and plenty of tiki huts and trees give ample shade for a day-long trip to the beach! No trip to Aruba’s beaches is complete without checking out Eagle Beach in the capital city of Oranjestad. Widely regarded as one of the best beaches in not just the Caribbean, but the world, Eagle Beach is known for its incredibly soft white sand and crystal blue waters. It’s the quintessential tropical beach paradise and it’s waiting for you! After catching a few rays on the beach, those with an adventurous side are in luck. Aruba has some of the world’s best water sports like windsurfing, snorkeling and scuba diving the many reefs and shipwrecks which lay submerged just off the coastline. Located at Arashi Beach, the California Lighthouse was named for a wooden steamer ship which wrecked along Aruba’s coastline way back in 1891. Divers can see a huge variety of tropical fish, crabs, octopus, sea turtles and more as they explore the natural reefs. If you go, make sure you stick around for sunset as it’s one of the best spots on the island for a picture. Hiking through the many caves and limestone cliffs of Arikok National Park, an ecological preserve on the island’s southeast section, is perfect for nature lovers and those who like to get out and explore someplace new and beautiful. The Ayo and Casibari rock formations are another popular hiking spot for visitors. This cluster of naturally forming boulders and cactus make for a visually appealing hike with some incredible views at the top! For golfers, Aruba offers two PGA-approved golf courses including Tierra Del Sol, which was given a 4.5 star rating from Golf Digest and features stunning views, challenging landscapes and plenty of fun. An international pro-am event every year brings golf enthusiasts from all over the world to the island’s courses. The picturesque island of Aruba is the ultimate vacation for the whole family. There’s no shortage of ways to spend the day in this tropical paradise and it won’t take long before you’re fully immersed in the culture of positivity and exploration found on the island. No matter what your ideal vacation looks like, you can find it here in Aruba. Start planning your next vacation today!
Source: Porthole Cruise
Pre- and Post-Cruise where continents come together - 48 Hours: five ways to spend two days in Istanbul
At the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Istanbul is one of the world’s most mesmerizing cities. Founded by the Greeks around 700 B.C., ruled by the Romans, then later conquered by the Ottoman Empire, its perfect location on the Bosphorus strait transcends Western civilization. The old quarter of Sultanahmet is a treasure trove of ancient masterpieces. Visitors never tire of its whimsical collection of domes and minarets. The city is at once mystical and modern. Like London, Paris, Rome, and Athens, this metropolis of 15 million is one of the great walking cities of Europe. Its vibrant streets teem with urban life. Intoxicating aromas permeate the walls of kebab houses. The haunting cries of muezzins ring from countless minarets throughout the citadel. Even simple bantering with local merchants, who peddle their wares at the Grand Bazaar and elsewhere, may lead to new friendships. Everywhere you turn in Istanbul, the city pulses with life. Crowds gather around Taksim Square and Istiklal Street 24 hours a day. Turkish cuisine is inherited from Ottoman cuisine, which is a fusion and refinement of Middle Eastern, Central Asian, and Balkan cuisine. This melting pot brought their culinary treasures together centuries ago. From high inside the lofty, 220-foot Galata Tower, a panoramic perspective extends across the city. Visit in the evening as the sun sets beyond the Galata Bridge. For some of the most awe-inspiring views of both the European and Asian sides, take a ferry ride or private yacht tour of the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn. Many rooftop bars or restaurants have outstanding views of the city. The Raffles Istanbul hotel offers incredible views of the Bosphorus, and the Swissotel offers an inspiring, 360-degree vista of the ancient citadel. Culture seekers have plenty to accomplish in a short time frame. Intrepid Travel and Tours by locals offer many historical and food-focused tours around the city.
Source: Porthole Cruise
SeaDream Sails to Israel for the First Time 2021
SeaDream Yacht Club opened reservations for its 2021 Mediterranean season. For the first time, the company will sail to Israel’s Port Ashdod, which features easy access to the most important cultural hub of the country, Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. With 6 new ports of call, SeaDream's 2021 season will ensure returning and new guests embark on an experience of a lifetime as they uncover the most mesmerizing destinations of the Mediterranean in the French and Italian Riviera, the Spanish coast, and Greek Isles. For the first visit of SeaDream to Israel, SeaDream 2 departs from Port Piraeus-Athens on an 11-night cruise with visits to Israel, Cyprus, Turkey. When visiting Ashdod, passengers can access Tel Aviv to explore the White City and the walled Old City of Jerusalem, that is filled with religious and cultural treasures. In Haifa, travelers will be dazzled by the famous Bahai Gardens, also popular as the Hanging Gardens of Haifa. Passengers can look forward to discovering new destinations with SeaDream in the 2021 season, including Ksamil, Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer, Otranto, Ashdod, Haifa, and Agios Nikolaus. To meet the rising demand for Greek itineraries, the twin luxury mega-yachts SeaDream 1 and SeaDream 2 are due to spend more time than ever in the Adriatic. All 2021 itineraries include at least 1 overnight call, allowing guests more time to explore the Mediterranean’s fascinating destinations and get immersed in the rich culture of the region. Each of the new destinations introduces exciting Yachting Land Adventures with options that appeal to every kind of tourists.
Source: Cruise Mapper
Doha Port has completed another step as part of its redevelopment project that would allow the port to welcome bigger ships.
According to Qatar’s Ministry of Transport and Communications (MOTC), the latest phase included dredging of up to 3.5 million cubic meters of material in the approach channel. Additionally, the officials said that extra berthing space has been provided with the aim to accommodate more than one giant cruise ship. MOTC said that it aims to boost Doha Port’s capacity to be able to receive the largest cruise ships in the future, helping to position the city among the world's top cruise ship tourism destinations. “Transforming Doha Port into a main hub for cruise ships in the region will generate significant economic returns to several key industries in Qatar,” said Sheikh Mohamed bin Khalid Al Thani, Director of Technical Affairs, MOTC. He added that the port would contribute to boosting Qatar’s ranking as a favorite tourism destination in the region through receiving supersize cruise ships.
Source: World Maritime News
CruiseBritain held a meeting this week at long-established member destination of Guernsey.
A location some 112km from the south coast of Britain and 40km from the coast of France, the Channel Island of Guernsey is a popular location for cruise calls sailing to and from UK/French ports. Mike Hopkins, director of marketing & tourism at VisitGuernsey welcomed CruiseBritain representatives explaining how Guernsey has a huge reliance on the sea, ‘keeping the island alive and vibrant’. Cruise tourism plays an important part in Guernsey which is set to welcome 138 calls in 2019 by 31 ships. Cruise visitors represent 100,000 out of 400,000 overall tourists visiting the island each year, explained Wendy Pedder CruiseGuernsey marketing manager. St Peter Port is capable of handling at least two large cruise ships at any one time with ships anchoring close to the island. Passengers disembark at a dedicated cruise pontoon 600mtr from the town centre. During a short tender transfer from the ships into St Peter Port harbour (5–10 minutes) visitors get a good panoramic view, which includes Guernsey’s sister Islands of Herm and Sark. On a clear day passengers may also see Alderney to the north and south to Jersey. The pocket sized capital of Guernsey St Peter Port is a vibrant mix of hustle and bustle with a distinctly continental atmosphere. Over 50 CruiseBritain members got to experience many of Guernsey’s attractions and sights including, historic buildings, museums, 480km of country lanes, beaches and a boat trip to Herm Island passing the anchor stops.
Source: Seatrade Cruise News
Devonport to attract smaller Cruise Ships
Devonport City Council is due to meet with TasPorts and Australian Cruise Ship Association in order to attract smaller cruise vessels to dock in the port city and ride the global cruise wave. Councilors voted at the monthly meeting on Monday, June 24, to adopt the motion tabled by Councillor Lynn Laycock to meet with the parties to investigate the potential of Devonport to attract the smaller "Expedition" cruise ships. It comes as Burnie plans to receive a total of 39 ships as part of the next cruise calendar, 12 more than in 2019. According to Cr Laycock, Burnie's deep port was best for larger cruise vessels to berth and Devonport leverages off the cruise ship visits with buses bringing guests to visit historic Home Hill and Bass Strait Maritime Centre. Cr Laycock added that if smaller vessels came into the port, which used to happen, the port city could package up its own shore trips and promote more of the facilities. TasPorts have confirmed berth No4 on the western side of the Mersey River could take smaller cruise vessels. She added it could take up to 2 years for Devonport to get included on the calendar.
Source: Cruise Mapper
Visitor arrivals to St. Vincent and the Grenadines for the first five months of 2019 have increased by 7.1 percent, according to a statement.
The provisional figures for the period January to May show that 232, 916 visitors came to St. Vincent and the Grenadines for the year thus far, compared with 217,453 in 2018. The uptick was driven by the cruise industry as a total of 158,233 cruise visitors arrived in the destination for the period registering an increase of 7.0 percent over the 147,878 cruise visitors for the comparative period in 2018. Arrivals by air also increased by 7.1 percent with a total of 36,757 in 2019 compared with 34,335 in 2018. The Canadian market registered the greatest increase for stay-over arrivals with an increase of 16.9 percent while the U.S. market registered an increase of 11.4 percent, according to a press release. Yacht arrivals grew by 7.6 percent during the months of January to May with a total of 37,926 yacht visitors for the five-month period.
Source: Cruise Industry News
Denmark’s Port of Aalborg has decided to limit the number of cruise ships in port to one at a time.
This is an attempt to manage over tourism and enhance the visitor experience, said Lars Bech, cruise manager from tourism organization Visit Aalborg. In the last five years Aalborg, Denmark’s only inland cruise port, has grown from receiving under 1,000 in 2014 to 40,000 cruise guests a year in 2018. The number is expected to increase, as the northern Denmark city grows. This year 34 calls are booked, and 45 calls are expected in 2020. ‘Aalborg cruise visitor attractions include scenic sailing in the Danish fjords, docking directly at The Royal Cruise Berth in the heart of the city, and lastly, the best hospitality in the Baltics’, noted Bech. Although Port of Aalborg can host several ships in port at the same time, Aalborg cruise partners, Port of Aalborg and Visit Aalborg, have jointly made the decision. Aalborg’s former commercial waterfront has undergone significant regeneration, and is at the heart of the city, where cruise ships berth giving guests access to the city’s main attractions. From 2018, cruise vessels calling in Aalborg were first permitted to discharge both black and grey water through a connection at the pier and directly into the public sewage system. The facilities are in line with the IMO/HELCOM regulations for cruise vessels in the Baltic and apply to new vessels from this year and to all existing vessels from 2021.
Source: Seatrade Cruise News
Galway seeing 'another strong' cruise year
“2019 is yet another strong year for cruise ships in Galway will all major lines calling,” said Captain Brian Sheridan, harbor master and chief operating officer. A planned port expansion is set to be approved in 2021, allowing ships to moor alongside and not tender guests in. “The expansion of the port will cater for the mooring of cruise ships. I see this as a game changer in the number of cruise ships clambering to get to Galway. The vessel orderbook is very promising and gives a bright future for the industry,” Sheridan told Cruise Industry News. Before mooring alongside is possible, the port is helping larger ships with their tender options. If a ship is greater than 50,000 tons or 1,000 guests, the port will have a local domestic ferry assist with tendering.
Source: Cruise Industry News
Overnights in Turkey, South America Circumnavigations and more: these new cruise itineraries destinations will make you swoon
Antigua and Barbuda welcomes Freewinds on 31st anniversary
The Minister of Tourism, The Honourable Charles Fernandez and other ministry of tourism representatives welcomed the Freewinds to Antigua on 21 June to commemorate the 31st anniversary of the vessel’s maiden voyage and 30 years since the Freewinds first called to Antigua. A plaque presentation included Captain Mike Napier and Freewinds Officials Port Captain Kenneth Weber, Jes Anderson Public Affairs Officer and Ruddy Rodriguez, a former Miss Universe.
Source: Cruise Industry News
Venice Mayor asks UNESCO to put city on World Heritage BlacklistThe mayor of Venice asked UNESCO to include the city on its world heritage site blacklist after the transport minister of Italy failed to deliver a plan to avoid huge cruise liners entering central canals. The years-long controversy on large cruise ships being allowed to sail on busy canals and dock close to the city centre has been reignited after MSC Opera crashed into a tourist boat in Giudecca canal on June 2. Mayor Brugnaro said the city didn’t feel represented anymore by Transport Minister Danilo Toninelli, who “has an arrogance I’ve never seen in my life and pretends of having understood in half a day what I haven’t understood in 57 years.” Following the crash in June, Mr Toninelli had promised a new plan to avoid the huge ships entering the central canals by the end of the month. However, he has not yet presented the plan. The accident reignited the debate over the damages caused by giant ship cruises to the historic infrastructure of Venice and their impact on the fragile environment. A UNESCO blacklist would restrict entry into the port city and is reserved for sights under significant danger.
Source: Cruise Mapper
A quartet of cruise ships arrived in Lerwick Harbour on Friday 21 June 2019
In an early morning rush, Cruise & Maritime Voyages’ Astor arrived from Bremerhaven, Germany, P&O’s Oriana from Torshavn, Faroe, and Holland American Line’s Zuiderdam from Reykjavik, Iceland, all before 10am, with Windstar Cruises Star Breeze arriving at lunchtime from Aalesund, Norway. Carrying around 4,200 passengers on board the four vessels, Astor and Star Breeze berthed at Mair’s Pier East and Holmsgarth 5 respectively, with Oriana and Zuiderdam at anchor. Astor will depart for Akureyri, Iceland, with the others heading for Scottish ports. It is the second time this season Lerwick has attracted four-in-a-day, with a quartet of small cruise vessels in port a few weeks ago. Lerwick Port Authority Cruise Manager, Melanie Henderson, said: “Single-ship visits are still the norm, but there are, increasingly, days when more than one are booked. In addition to the four today, there are 26 days this season with two or more cruise vessels, out of the 83 days when ships are scheduled. “It is unusual to have four ships in one day, although we do have the capacity to handle multiple calls simultaneously, both alongside and at anchor, which is complemented by highly-developed shore-side and welcome services, with an expanded network of visitor attractions.” Shetland was named recently in travel authority Lonely Planet’s latest top ten of must-see European destinations for 2019, the only UK location included. The 11 maiden cruise visits expected at Lerwick in 2019 include MSC Preziosa, the largest of the year at 139,072 gross tonnes and capacity for over 3,500 passengers due on 25 July, and Queen Victoria, the first Cunard vessel to visit Lerwick, on 31 July. A record-breaking 106 cruise ships are scheduled to visit this season.
Source: Cruise Europe
Ferry ride from Kerala to Maldives soon
India and the Maldives have decided to launch a passenger-cum-cargo ferry service between Kerala’s Kochi and Male, the capital of Maldives, via Kulhudhuffushi atoll in a bid to strengthen connectivity between the two countries and boost tourism. On his recent visit to the Maldives, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih have asked officials to expeditiously work towards starting the regular passenger-cum-cargo ferry service between the two countries. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the two sides for the establishment of passenger and cargo services by sea. The distance between Kochi and Male is about 700 kms, and between Kochi and Kulhudhuffushi atoll is 500 kms. Addressing the Maldivian Parliament, PM Modi said, “I am particularly happy that we have agreed upon a ferry service between the two countries.”
Source: Travel Daily Media
IATO signs agreement with Tourist Guides’ Federation of India to hike guide fee
The Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) has signed an agreement with the Tourist Guides’ Federation of India to increase the guide fee by approximately 10 percent effective from October 1. The new rates will be valid for a period of two years till September 30, 2021. Sharing more information, Rajeev Mehra, Vice President, IATO said that the agreement has been signed keeping in view the interest of certified tour guides across the country. “IATO President, Pronab Sarkar and TGFI President, Ajay Singh have signed an agreement to hike the fee. The fee and allowances agreed upon should be paid in full and are not negotiable. There will be no extra charges in addition to the rates agreed upon for escorting groups.” It was also decided that a suitable imprest amount may be given to the guides before the commencement of their agreement with the mutual understanding in case of outstation trips involving minimum one overnight. Usage and guides and fee structure shall be as per the laid down policies of the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India.
Source: Tourism Breaking News
The Port of Lisbon won, for the fourth year in a row, and for the fifth time, the prize for the best cruise port in Europe
This was during the 26th edition of the World Travel Awards Europe, held on 8th June in Funchal. The Minister of the Sea welcomed this prize that represents the result of the Strategy for the Increase of Portuguese Port Competitiveness, which also reflects the recognition for the work carried out in reinforcing the importance of Portugal Blue Economy. It was also with great pride that the Port of Lisbon Authority received the news of this prize, which constitutes a proof of the international recognition of the city of Lisbon and the commitment that the Port of Lisbon together with Lisbon Cruise Port (Cruise Terminal Operator) and all stakeholders involved had to promote Lisbon as one of the most privileged destinations for ships and cruise passengers. On the other hand, it reinforces the good performance and capacity of the Port of Lisbon regarding the cruise sector, in line with the good results recorded over the last years. The World Travel Awards distinguish the best examples of good practices in the tourism sector, and it is in this sense that APL has worked and will continue to work, together with the LCP concessionaire in pursuit of a common goal: to enhance the port and the city of Lisbon as a destination of cruises of excellence. Since 2009, when the city of Lisbon was chosen as the best cruise destination in Europe, in the World Travel Awards Europe held in Óbidos, the port and the city of Lisbon have been nominated for the World Travel Awards, at European and World level, for the best cruise port and destination categories, having won the two categories in the World Travel Awards Europe in 2014, 2016, 2017 and 2018.
Source: Cruise Europe
First-ever ferry services launched between Bulgaria and Turkey
The first sea bus transportation between Bulgaria and Turkey was started on Tuesday, June 18, as a ferry carried passengers from the Bulgarian port city of Burgas to the northwestern Turkish province of Kırklareli. The services were initiated by Istanbul's Sea Bus Operators (IDO) with an aim to boost tourism along Turkey's Black Sea coast. The first ferryboat (Sinan Pasha) reached a port in Igneada district after 5 hours. The first ferry passengers to make the international cruise were Bulgarian authorities and press members. IDO Chairman Hasan Ustundag said that they had succeeded in establishing the first service between the countries and they would increase the services if they reached the predicted passenger potential. According to District Governor Cafer Ekinci, they would initiate the necessary work in order to increase the number of ferry services.
Source: Cruise Mapper
If you’re a frequent cruiser, there’s a good chance you’ve visited Cozumel, Mexico at least once. This popular port-of-call is a staple in the Western Caribbean. Even if you think you’ve “been there, done that” in Cozumel, there’s one place you really need to see. Here’s why Punta Sur Eco Beach Park should be on your next Cozumel itinerary. Punta Sur is located on the southern tip of the island—hence the name—which means “South Point” in Spanish. The park is a 30-minute drive from the international cruise port. Our group rented a small bus with a driver. Renting a vehicle is the best option as opposed to taking a taxi; you will want transportation inside the park (Jeeps are a popular choice). The daily price of admission is reasonable at $16 USD per person and gives you access to many of the park’s amenities. The admission price felt like a steal compared to the prices in Orlando. The first stop: Celarin Lighthouse and navigation museum. The museum is a self-guided tour of the history of Cozumel, with many artifacts. However, the main attraction is venturing to the top of the lighthouse. Sweeping views of beautiful, turquoise water and rocky shorelines awaited us at the top. Then make your way to Playa Chunchacab. This is a great place to relax and enjoy a gorgeous beachfront with crystal-clear waters. Loungers and umbrellas are already set up, so all you need to do is plop down and take in the view. Hungry? Bring some extra cash to enjoy the delicious classic Mexican cuisine like tacos, nachos, and fresh seafood all while keeping our toes in the sand. Also, sip on a specialty drink— they will serve it in a freshly-picked coconut if desired. There are many other activities that are worth exploring. These include snorkeling, kayaking, boating around a lagoon, and visiting a Mayan ruin. The best part of Punta Sur isn’t the gorgeous views and great activities, but how well-maintained it is. Employees are accommodating, admission is a breeze, and there is ample parking. There are plenty of bathrooms, outdoor showers, and food options as well. Plus, small crowds left us feeling like Punta Sur Eco Beach Park was our private Cozumel oasis. While most major cruise lines offer stops in Cozumel, only some offer Punta Sur as a shore excursion. However, don’t let this deter you from visiting the park! The drive back to port will treat you to spectacular views of towering, rocky cliffs overlooking beautiful royal blue waters.
Source: Porthole Cruise
Cruise Britain’s new member Cowes announces 2019 cruise season and new land and water-based trips
Cowes Harbour Commission is extremely pleased to announce that Cowes, Isle of Wight, has six cruise ship calls booked for 2019, including four inaugural calls from some of the world’s premium luxury cruise lines. July will mark an exciting point in the development of the harbour’s cruise business; the inaugural visits to Cowes of ultra-luxury cruise ships The World, Seabourn Quest, and Silver Wind. The World, the largest private residential ship on the planet, will be the first cruise ship to pay an overnight visit to Cowes on 12th-13th July. Seabourn Quest will visit Cowes on 15th July and is the third iteration of the vessel design that has been called a “game-changer for the luxury segment”. Silversea’s intimate cruise ship Silver Wind, which had a major upgrade in December 2018, will call on 18th July. The global cruise market is currently growing at an exponential rate, and it is also excellent news that the UK is experiencing growth in ports-of-call visits. Locally, Cowes Harbour Commission has a strategic policy to contribute with stakeholders to the promotion of Cowes as a destination, including attracting increased cruise calls to Cowes. New for 2019, Cowes Harbour Commission has facilitated the development by shoreside tour operators of several new land and water-based excursions to further enhance the range of unique experiences available to cruise passengers, including for the first time tours based in and around the vibrant Cowes town. Shoreside tour operators are developing new land and water-based trips to enhance the range of authentic, exclusive and bespoke experiences for cruise passengers. New excursions that are proving popular this year include ‘A Taste of Royal Cowes’, ‘The Needles by RIB’ and ‘Ventnor Botanic Gardens’.
Source: Cruise Britain
10 best Western Caribbean Cruise Ports you should visit
Western Caribbean Cruise itineraries transport you in luxury to exotic tropical destinations and off-the-beaten-path places such as Belize City, Roatan and Progreso. Beautiful beaches and jungle-covered mountains provide excellent eco tours while Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula offers ancient Mayan ruins and cool freshwater cenotes (sinkholes).
Cozumel, Mexico Perfect for enjoying beach, catamaran or sail-and-snorkel tours. Self-drive jungle jeeps, ATVs and dune buggy tours are a fun way to explore the island with a stop for tequila tasting and time relaxing at the beach. Shore excursions also visit Chankanaab National Park with the chance to enjoy a dolphin encounter. Longer guided tours take in the archaeological Mayan Ruins at Tulum by ferry and minibus. On Cozumel, the main things to do within walking distance of the port are shopping and dining. However, if you share the cost of a local taxi with other cruisers, the island has plenty to offer. The San Gervasio Mayan Ruins, Chocolate Factory, Tequila Tasting experience and local beaches are all just a short drive from the port. Cozumel Travel Tip - cruisers with children can book a Day Pass to a private beach club or water park on Cozumel from around $24.
Grand Cayman The gorgeous island of Grand Cayman offers some unique cruise shore excursions including snorkeling and diving over a sunken WW2 wreck or swimming with stingrays. Turtle Farm Tours present butterflies, sharks and other native wildlife and visitors get to handle newly hatched turtles. There are many boat trips available in Grand Cayman including catamarans, glass bottom boats and sailboat tours or book a place on the Trolley Roger Train for a scenic tour of Georgetown. Grand Cayman has upscale shops and art galleries to browse around near the port in this banking mecca. For a longer leg-stretch, head to Seven Mile Beach on foot or by local taxi. This stunning white sandy beach has many water sports on offer. Alternatively, just sit and relax with a long fruity drink at one of the luxury resorts that overlook the beach, such as the Ritz-Carlton. Grand Cayman Travel Tip - Pick up a delicious Caribbean Rum Cake as a souvenir. You’ll find them in most gift shops on Grand Cayman. Boxed and wrapped, they stay moist for weeks.
Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico Shore excursions in Costa Maya are mainly focused on sandy beaches and watersports in the clear blue Caribbean Sea. Go snorkeling, swimming with dolphins or enjoy sailing on a private catamaran tour. Get to know more about the area with a City Walking Tour or opt for a Culinary Tour which explores Mexican history and cuisine with tastings! The Chaccoben Mayan Ruins and the amazing Lake of Seven Colors are well worth visiting as part of a cruise shore excursion. Costa Maya cruise port has a modern shopping center which includes a plaza with saltwater pools and swim-up bars – a great way to escape the heat! Local taxis will take you to some of the archaeological sites in the area. Puerto Costa Maya Travel Tip - The Dzibanche Mayan Ruins are one of the few sites where visitors can still climb up the impressive temple pyramid.
Roatan, Honduras White sandy beaches, cultural attractions and a warm welcome from locals make the island of Roatan a top choice for visitors on a Western Caribbean Cruise. Dive and snorkel in pristine waters on the world’s second longest barrier reef, swim with dolphins or take a tour of the local Iguana Farm, one of the top attractions in Roatan. Gumbalina Park packs in local wildlife, monkeys, birds, tropical gardens and a beach. Cultural tours include a scenic drive, boat trip through the mangroves and an ancestral dance performance by Native Black Carib Indians wearing colorful native costumes. Garden lovers will enjoy a shore excursion to the 40-acre Carambola Botanical Gardens with trails winding through lush greenery. Cruisers exploring independently will find plenty of duty-free shopping at the Town Center in the Port of Roatan. Handmade arts and crafts, local pottery and stunning underwater photos by Shawn Jackson make fabulous souvenirs of your visit. There are plenty of beautiful beaches nearby, including Mahogany Beach, which is reached by aerial chair lift! Roatan Travel Tip- If you like seafood, you’ll love Roatan cuisine. Try tapado, a rich and hearty stew of seafood and root vegetables cooked in coconut milk. Wash it down with an icy Port Royal beer.
Ocho Rios, Jamaica Jungle-clad mountains, rushing rivers and sugar plantations can all be experienced on shore excursions from Ocho Rios. One of the most popular organized tours is to Dunn’s River Falls, just a short drive from the port. Wear swimwear and scramble 600 feet up the rocks in the rushing waterfall. Alternatively, stay dry and watch from the open viewing platforms! Jeep tours, river rafting, zip-lining, snorkeling, ATV-ing and distillery tours can all be part of your fun Western Caribbean cruise to Jamaica. You’ll definitely hear the reggae beat and Bob Marley tunes everywhere! The town of “Ochi” has plenty of things to see and do for cruisers exploring independently. This former fishing village is friendly and safe for visitors to stroll around the shops, restaurants and beaches, although you should take the usual precautions against petty theft. Walk along the Turtle River Park or visit Shaw Park Gardens and Konoko Falls. They are all within walking distance of the port, although it’s a steep uphill climb. Ocho Rios Travel Tip - Treat yourself to some Blue Mountain coffee beans, said to be the best in the world!
Montego Bay, Jamaica Jamaica is a sizeable island and the only way to get a real taste of it is on an Island Tour with a local guide. Shore excursions from your cruise include river rafting, climbing Dunn’s River Falls or a private Jeep Tour. Go snorkeling, zip-lining and horseback riding in this beautiful island. A fascinating Plantation Tour allows you to sample honey, fresh pineapple and raw sugarcane! Jamaica has some safety issues in the cities, so if you want to explore independently you should take a taxi. Go duty-free shopping or visit the pineapple plantation. Alternatively, take a taxi to Rose Hall and enjoy the private beach, lazy river and restaurant. Montego Bay Travel Tip - Relive the movie Cool Runnings with the Montego Bay Bobsled Tour. Ride the chair lift then descend through the tropical forest aboard your own bobsled. How cool is that?
Progreso, Mexico Beautiful beaches, Mayan ruins, wildlife safaris and swimming in clear cenotes (sinkholes) can all be enjoyed on shore excursions in Progreso, Mexico. Take a City Tour and learn the history of Progreso or visit the historic city of Merida with its 500-year-old cathedral and plenty of shops. History and culture combine on a tour to one of the Mayan archaeological sites including UNESCO-listed Chichen Itza with its Kukulkan Pyramid and Ball Court. There’s a very long walk along the pier from the cruise ship and not a lot of local attractions in this newly added port of call. Enjoy some authentic Mexican cuisine in the local town or head to the beach. Progreso Travel Tip - One of the most unusual tours from Progreso is an ATV excursion to Misnebalam Ghost Town, said to be haunted, followed by time relaxing at a private beach club.
Playa del Carmen, Mexico In the heart of Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen is a superb port of call on Western Caribbean Cruises. Endless shore excursions include swimming, snorkeling, boat trips, catamaran tours etc. For something more unusual, take a trip to the caves at Rio Secreto with their amazing stalactites or take a guided tour to the Tulum Mayan Ruins overlooking the beach and blue Caribbean Sea. You can spend hours exploring the 5th Avenue shops and cantina restaurants in Playa del Carmen before relaxing on the nearby beach. Local taxis will take you to some of the freshwater cenotes nearby. Take your swimsuit and snorkeling gear and enjoy a refreshing dip surrounded by nature. Playa del Carmen Travel Tip - Families will enjoy the award-winning Xcaret Eco Theme Park, which combines animals, nature and a model Mayan village. Just 5 miles from Playa del Carmen, it includes cool water activities including a Lazy River.
Belize City, Belize Belize combines epic jungle experiences with the second longest barrier reef in the world. Snorkeling, scuba diving and helicopter tours to the Blue Hole are a must for those who love watersports, and they are surprisingly affordable in Belize. Exciting inland tours include cave tubing, rafting down a jungle river or zip-lining high above the rainforest. Hidden in the jungle are many fantastic Mayan ruins and pyramids, the most popular sites being Altun Ha and Xunantunich. One of the great advantages of exploring Belize City independently is that the official language of this former British colony is English! Most larger ships anchor offshore due to the shallow waters and cruisers have to use a tender (small motor launch) to get ashore. Explore the Shopping Village on the waterfront with the usual diamond stores, colorful bars (look for the Wet Lizard) and a Belizean Chocolate Store for edible souvenirs. Belize City is not the most attractive place to stroll around, but it has a House of Culture Museum in Government House, a cathedral and rum factory. You’ll also encounter plenty of street vendors selling everything from hair braiding services to horse and buggy rides. Belize Travel Tip - Most of Belize’s coastline is covered in mangroves so don’t expect to find any sandy beaches.
Key West, Florida There’s so much to see and do in colorful Key West, so taking a shore excursion is the best way to see it all. Fishing charters, parasailing, snorkeling and diving trips are popular along with jet ski tours, bicycling, kayaking, glass bottom boats and tall ship cruises at sunset. Cruise shore excursions include Audubon House and Gardens, Hemingway Home, the Butterfly Conservatory, Truman’s Little White House and the amazing Mel Fisher Maritime Museum with its collection of shipwreck treasures. Cruise ships dock near Mallory Square, the central hub of Key West. Street artists and performers entertain the crowds on the waterfront at the nightly Sunset Celebration in America’s southernmost city. Stroll 2 blocks to the shops, art galleries and eateries along Duval Street or take the Conch Tour Train and enjoy the commentary as you pass all the historic sites and attractions. For a day at the beach, take a 3-mile taxi ride to sandy Smathers Beach. Key West Travel Tip - Most Western Caribbean cruises call in at Key West either on the outward or return journey. This remote waterfront community is much easier to reach by sea than overland, which involves a 160-mile drive from Miami on the two-lane Overseas Highway, often at speeds of 45mph or less!
Source: Cruise Hive
The Asia Pacific overtook Europe in 2018 as the second most important passenger source
Asia Pacific has overtaken Europe as the second most important source region for cruise passengers, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd (RCCL) said in its 2018 annual report. The number of Europeans that took a cruise increased by 3.0% to 6.99 million last year, while the Asia-Pacific region experienced a 29.4% increase, to 7.00 million, RCCL said. “Industry cruise guests sourced from the Asia/Pacific region represented approximately 25% of global cruise guests in 2018. The compound annual growth rate in cruise guests sourced from this market was approximately 31% from 2014 to 2018. The Asia/Pacific region is experiencing the highest growth rate of the major regions, although it represents a relatively small sector compared to North America,” RCCL said. “Industry cruise guests sourced from Europe represented approximately 25% of global cruise guests in 2018. The compound annual growth rate in cruise guests sourced from this market was approximately 2% from 2014 to 2018,” RCCL continued. North America produced 13.0 million passengers last year, an increase of some 200,000 on the previous year, according to RCCL figures.
Source: Cruise Business
Aruba: vacation at your own pace
This spectacular island offers fun and relaxation for everyone. A palate of stunning blues and greens, the coastline of Aruba jumps out at those visiting the island for the first time. With an average temperature of 82 degrees and more sunny days than any other Caribbean island, it’s no wonder cruisers and vacationers alike are making Aruba their next trip. From enjoying a sunny day at one of the many pristine beaches to diving the magnificent shipwreck reefs or playing a round of golf at one of the island’s two pristine golf courses, Aruba allows visitors to personalize their vacation to fit their style and truly make it one to remember! It’s no secret that Aruba has some of the world’s best beaches. Just one look at the gorgeous blue water and soft sand is enough for most people to decide the beach is where they want to spend their Aruba vacation. Just minutes from the cruise port, Surfside Beach is one of the island’s most popular. Calm, turquoise waters are perfect for a swim after catching a few rays on the beach. Grab a towel and hit the beach or visit one of the many beachside clubs offering pool access, lounge chairs and plenty of refreshments. Baby Beach, located at the southern tip of the island, was made for families. The naturally-formed bay keeps the water calm and plenty of tiki huts and trees give ample shade for a day-long trip to the beach! No trip to Aruba’s beaches is complete without checking out Eagle Beach in the capital city of Oranjestad. Widely regarded as one of the best beaches in not just the Caribbean, but the world, Eagle Beach is known for its incredibly soft white sand and crystal blue waters. It’s the quintessential tropical beach paradise and it’s waiting for you! After catching a few rays on the beach, those with an adventurous side are in luck. Aruba has some of the world’s best water sports like windsurfing, snorkeling and scuba diving the many reefs and shipwrecks which lay submerged just off the coastline. Located at Arashi Beach, the California Lighthouse was named for a wooden steamer ship which wrecked along Aruba’s coastline way back in 1891. Divers can see a huge variety of tropical fish, crabs, octopus, sea turtles and more as they explore the natural reefs. If you go, make sure you stick around for sunset as it’s one of the best spots on the island for a picture. Hiking through the many caves and limestone cliffs of Arikok National Park, an ecological preserve on the island’s southeast section, is perfect for nature lovers and those who like to get out and explore someplace new and beautiful. The Ayo and Casibari rock formations are another popular hiking spot for visitors. This cluster of naturally forming boulders and cactus make for a visually appealing hike with some incredible views at the top! For golfers, Aruba offers two PGA-approved golf courses including Tierra Del Sol, which was given a 4.5 star rating from Golf Digest and features stunning views, challenging landscapes and plenty of fun. An international pro-am event every year brings golf enthusiasts from all over the world to the island’s courses. The picturesque island of Aruba is the ultimate vacation for the whole family. There’s no shortage of ways to spend the day in this tropical paradise and it won’t take long before you’re fully immersed in the culture of positivity and exploration found on the island. No matter what your ideal vacation looks like, you can find it here in Aruba. Start planning your next vacation today!
Source: Porthole Cruise
Pre- and Post-Cruise where continents come together - 48 Hours: five ways to spend two days in Istanbul
At the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Istanbul is one of the world’s most mesmerizing cities. Founded by the Greeks around 700 B.C., ruled by the Romans, then later conquered by the Ottoman Empire, its perfect location on the Bosphorus strait transcends Western civilization. The old quarter of Sultanahmet is a treasure trove of ancient masterpieces. Visitors never tire of its whimsical collection of domes and minarets. The city is at once mystical and modern. Like London, Paris, Rome, and Athens, this metropolis of 15 million is one of the great walking cities of Europe. Its vibrant streets teem with urban life. Intoxicating aromas permeate the walls of kebab houses. The haunting cries of muezzins ring from countless minarets throughout the citadel. Even simple bantering with local merchants, who peddle their wares at the Grand Bazaar and elsewhere, may lead to new friendships. Everywhere you turn in Istanbul, the city pulses with life. Crowds gather around Taksim Square and Istiklal Street 24 hours a day. Turkish cuisine is inherited from Ottoman cuisine, which is a fusion and refinement of Middle Eastern, Central Asian, and Balkan cuisine. This melting pot brought their culinary treasures together centuries ago. From high inside the lofty, 220-foot Galata Tower, a panoramic perspective extends across the city. Visit in the evening as the sun sets beyond the Galata Bridge. For some of the most awe-inspiring views of both the European and Asian sides, take a ferry ride or private yacht tour of the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn. Many rooftop bars or restaurants have outstanding views of the city. The Raffles Istanbul hotel offers incredible views of the Bosphorus, and the Swissotel offers an inspiring, 360-degree vista of the ancient citadel. Culture seekers have plenty to accomplish in a short time frame. Intrepid Travel and Tours by locals offer many historical and food-focused tours around the city.
Source: Porthole Cruise
---------- WEEK 26 ----------
SeaDream Sails to Israel for the First Time 2021
SeaDream Yacht Club opened reservations for its 2021 Mediterranean season. For the first time, the company will sail to Israel’s Port Ashdod, which features easy access to the most important cultural hub of the country, Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. With 6 new ports of call, SeaDream's 2021 season will ensure returning and new guests embark on an experience of a lifetime as they uncover the most mesmerizing destinations of the Mediterranean in the French and Italian Riviera, the Spanish coast, and Greek Isles. For the first visit of SeaDream to Israel, SeaDream 2 departs from Port Piraeus-Athens on an 11-night cruise with visits to Israel, Cyprus, Turkey. When visiting Ashdod, passengers can access Tel Aviv to explore the White City and the walled Old City of Jerusalem, that is filled with religious and cultural treasures. In Haifa, travelers will be dazzled by the famous Bahai Gardens, also popular as the Hanging Gardens of Haifa. Passengers can look forward to discovering new destinations with SeaDream in the 2021 season, including Ksamil, Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer, Otranto, Ashdod, Haifa, and Agios Nikolaus. To meet the rising demand for Greek itineraries, the twin luxury mega-yachts SeaDream 1 and SeaDream 2 are due to spend more time than ever in the Adriatic. All 2021 itineraries include at least 1 overnight call, allowing guests more time to explore the Mediterranean’s fascinating destinations and get immersed in the rich culture of the region. Each of the new destinations introduces exciting Yachting Land Adventures with options that appeal to every kind of tourists.
Source: Cruise Mapper
Doha Port has completed another step as part of its redevelopment project that would allow the port to welcome bigger ships.
According to Qatar’s Ministry of Transport and Communications (MOTC), the latest phase included dredging of up to 3.5 million cubic meters of material in the approach channel. Additionally, the officials said that extra berthing space has been provided with the aim to accommodate more than one giant cruise ship. MOTC said that it aims to boost Doha Port’s capacity to be able to receive the largest cruise ships in the future, helping to position the city among the world's top cruise ship tourism destinations. “Transforming Doha Port into a main hub for cruise ships in the region will generate significant economic returns to several key industries in Qatar,” said Sheikh Mohamed bin Khalid Al Thani, Director of Technical Affairs, MOTC. He added that the port would contribute to boosting Qatar’s ranking as a favorite tourism destination in the region through receiving supersize cruise ships.
Source: World Maritime News
CruiseBritain held a meeting this week at long-established member destination of Guernsey.
A location some 112km from the south coast of Britain and 40km from the coast of France, the Channel Island of Guernsey is a popular location for cruise calls sailing to and from UK/French ports. Mike Hopkins, director of marketing & tourism at VisitGuernsey welcomed CruiseBritain representatives explaining how Guernsey has a huge reliance on the sea, ‘keeping the island alive and vibrant’. Cruise tourism plays an important part in Guernsey which is set to welcome 138 calls in 2019 by 31 ships. Cruise visitors represent 100,000 out of 400,000 overall tourists visiting the island each year, explained Wendy Pedder CruiseGuernsey marketing manager. St Peter Port is capable of handling at least two large cruise ships at any one time with ships anchoring close to the island. Passengers disembark at a dedicated cruise pontoon 600mtr from the town centre. During a short tender transfer from the ships into St Peter Port harbour (5–10 minutes) visitors get a good panoramic view, which includes Guernsey’s sister Islands of Herm and Sark. On a clear day passengers may also see Alderney to the north and south to Jersey. The pocket sized capital of Guernsey St Peter Port is a vibrant mix of hustle and bustle with a distinctly continental atmosphere. Over 50 CruiseBritain members got to experience many of Guernsey’s attractions and sights including, historic buildings, museums, 480km of country lanes, beaches and a boat trip to Herm Island passing the anchor stops.
Source: Seatrade Cruise News
Devonport to attract smaller Cruise Ships
Devonport City Council is due to meet with TasPorts and Australian Cruise Ship Association in order to attract smaller cruise vessels to dock in the port city and ride the global cruise wave. Councilors voted at the monthly meeting on Monday, June 24, to adopt the motion tabled by Councillor Lynn Laycock to meet with the parties to investigate the potential of Devonport to attract the smaller "Expedition" cruise ships. It comes as Burnie plans to receive a total of 39 ships as part of the next cruise calendar, 12 more than in 2019. According to Cr Laycock, Burnie's deep port was best for larger cruise vessels to berth and Devonport leverages off the cruise ship visits with buses bringing guests to visit historic Home Hill and Bass Strait Maritime Centre. Cr Laycock added that if smaller vessels came into the port, which used to happen, the port city could package up its own shore trips and promote more of the facilities. TasPorts have confirmed berth No4 on the western side of the Mersey River could take smaller cruise vessels. She added it could take up to 2 years for Devonport to get included on the calendar.
Source: Cruise Mapper
Visitor arrivals to St. Vincent and the Grenadines for the first five months of 2019 have increased by 7.1 percent, according to a statement.
The provisional figures for the period January to May show that 232, 916 visitors came to St. Vincent and the Grenadines for the year thus far, compared with 217,453 in 2018. The uptick was driven by the cruise industry as a total of 158,233 cruise visitors arrived in the destination for the period registering an increase of 7.0 percent over the 147,878 cruise visitors for the comparative period in 2018. Arrivals by air also increased by 7.1 percent with a total of 36,757 in 2019 compared with 34,335 in 2018. The Canadian market registered the greatest increase for stay-over arrivals with an increase of 16.9 percent while the U.S. market registered an increase of 11.4 percent, according to a press release. Yacht arrivals grew by 7.6 percent during the months of January to May with a total of 37,926 yacht visitors for the five-month period.
Source: Cruise Industry News
Denmark’s Port of Aalborg has decided to limit the number of cruise ships in port to one at a time.
This is an attempt to manage over tourism and enhance the visitor experience, said Lars Bech, cruise manager from tourism organization Visit Aalborg. In the last five years Aalborg, Denmark’s only inland cruise port, has grown from receiving under 1,000 in 2014 to 40,000 cruise guests a year in 2018. The number is expected to increase, as the northern Denmark city grows. This year 34 calls are booked, and 45 calls are expected in 2020. ‘Aalborg cruise visitor attractions include scenic sailing in the Danish fjords, docking directly at The Royal Cruise Berth in the heart of the city, and lastly, the best hospitality in the Baltics’, noted Bech. Although Port of Aalborg can host several ships in port at the same time, Aalborg cruise partners, Port of Aalborg and Visit Aalborg, have jointly made the decision. Aalborg’s former commercial waterfront has undergone significant regeneration, and is at the heart of the city, where cruise ships berth giving guests access to the city’s main attractions. From 2018, cruise vessels calling in Aalborg were first permitted to discharge both black and grey water through a connection at the pier and directly into the public sewage system. The facilities are in line with the IMO/HELCOM regulations for cruise vessels in the Baltic and apply to new vessels from this year and to all existing vessels from 2021.
Source: Seatrade Cruise News
Galway seeing 'another strong' cruise year
“2019 is yet another strong year for cruise ships in Galway will all major lines calling,” said Captain Brian Sheridan, harbor master and chief operating officer. A planned port expansion is set to be approved in 2021, allowing ships to moor alongside and not tender guests in. “The expansion of the port will cater for the mooring of cruise ships. I see this as a game changer in the number of cruise ships clambering to get to Galway. The vessel orderbook is very promising and gives a bright future for the industry,” Sheridan told Cruise Industry News. Before mooring alongside is possible, the port is helping larger ships with their tender options. If a ship is greater than 50,000 tons or 1,000 guests, the port will have a local domestic ferry assist with tendering.
Source: Cruise Industry News
Overnights in Turkey, South America Circumnavigations and more: these new cruise itineraries destinations will make you swoon
Caribbean
- Silversea will visit 46 destinations in the Caribbean throughout 2020 and 2021 as part of its upcoming itineraries on a total of 26 voyages aboard Silver Shadow, Silver Whisper and Silver Moon.
- Princess has a number of Caribbean cruises on the docket for 2020-2021.
- Disney Cruise Line will be traversing the Caribbean quite a bit over the next year..
- Sea Cloud Cruises is launching Sea Cloud Spirit, and the ship's itineraries include the line's first-ever call on the U.S. Virgin Islands and other Caribbean ports of call.
- Holland America Line's Westerdam will call on nine countries in Asia: Cambodia, China, Japan, the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam..
- Vantage Travel's Ocean Explorer is offering 11 itineraries for its inaugural season. Its first-ever voyage will be Essential Asia, a Hong Kong to Singapore adventure cruise in 2021. The ship will circumnavigate the globe for its inaugural season, sailing to Southeast Asia, the Middle East, the Arabian Peninsula, the Mediterranean, the British Isles, Scandinavia and beyond. A total of 20 itineraries begin in Asia before heading to Europe, taking a transatlantic passage to North America, sailing to Central and South America, and finally making their way down to Antarctica.
- Azamara will continue its popular Japan-intensive sailings in 2021 and 2022, including a maiden call on Amami, Japan -- one of the largest islands at the southerly tip of the country.
- Silversea's Asia itineraries have Silver Muse and Silver Spirit visiting 58 ports in 18 countries between September 2020 and May 2021. Each ship will sail seven voyages; calls will include Mumbai, Singapore, Hong Kong, Shanghai and Tokyo. Multiple overnight calls in Vietnam and roundtrip voyages from Tokyo during the cherry blossom season are also scheduled.
- Star Clippers has several new itineraries in Asia, debuting this September and running through April 2021. These include a stop in Cambodia for the first time with ports of call that feature Koh Rong and Sihanoukville. Other Asian ports include islands off the coast of Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia. An optional overnight excursion to visit the temple complex of Angkor Wat in Siem Reap is available for passengers.
- Paul Gauguin has added new French Polynesia and broader South Pacific itineraries to its 2020 sailings, including a 16-night Fiji-to-Bali itinerary, and 12- and 13-night Fiji, Tonga, Cook and Society Islands sailings.
Australia and New Zealand
- Azamara will be visiting Fraser Island, Australia in 2021- a UNESCO World Heritage Site off the coast of Queensland -- for the first time as part of an 18-night Australia-intensive voyage.
- Silversea will take passengers to 49 destinations in and around Australia, New Zealand and Indonesia from October 2020 to March 2021. A circumnavigation of Australia is possible by combining three voyages for a total of 50 days onboard Silver Muse.
- UnCruise has added Belize, Guatemala and Colombia as new destinations to its 2020 itineraries. The Latin American voyages include three weeklong 66-passenger safaris in Colombia and Panama, and six week long adventure cruises to Belize and Guatemala.
- Silversea's Silver Moon, in the ship's inaugural season, will call on 55 destinations and 27 Central and South American countries during four voyages between January and April 2021. A 69-day total circumnavigation of the continent is possible by combining all four sailings.
- Princess added a new 15-night itinerary from Fort Lauderdale to San Diego that passes through the Panama Canal for the September 2020 to April 2021 season. Five Princess ships with four homeports -- Fort Lauderdale, Los Angeles, San Diego and San Francisco - will complete full and partial Panama Canal voyages. Other options include two 14-day Panama Canal sailings as part of Island Princess' 2021 world cruise, a 15-day Panama Canal Connoisseur sailing from Fort Lauderdale to Los Angeles on Pacific Princess for a small-ship canal transit, and a 19-day Panama Canal Pacific Adventure cruise, roundtrip from Los Angeles on Coral Princess.
- Holland America has seven ships slated to sail the Panama Canal on 30 total cruises from 2019 to 2020. The full Panama Canal transit option is offered on 16 voyages departing from either Fort Lauderdale, San Diego or Vancouver from September 2019 through May 2020 aboard Amsterdam, Eurodam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Oosterdam, Rotterdam or Volendam.
- Grand Voyages by Azamara allow passengers to book back-to-back New South America cruises for longer sailings that visit more destinations. One offering is a 69-night circumnavigation of South America that departs from Miami in January 2022, visits 32 countries (including Argentina, Brazil, Peru, Chile, Uruguay and Colombia) and sails through Antarctic Sound. Also, Azamara will be visiting three South American ports for the first time: Arica, Chile; Guayaquil, Ecuador; and Manta, Ecuador.
- Disney Wonder departs San Diego for a 14-night Panama Canal crossing on November 6, 2019. Earlier in the season, the ship will offer Halloween on the High Seas cruises to Baja and the Mexican Riviera with itineraries of two, three, four and five nights, with one seven-night Mexican Riviera cruise.
- Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic now offers over 100 Wild Escapes voyages, which provide shorter options to expanded destinations that include the Galapagos, as well as Iceland, the Sea of Cortez, Costa Rica, Belize and California. Passengers can take a five-night voyage to the Channel Islands or a weeklong journey to the Galapagos. A two-day Machu Picchu extension is also an option.
- Azamara's destination immersion programming means offerings of 140 overnight stays around the world, including Eastern Europe, the Black Sea and Turkey. Three overnights in Istanbul are new offerings for the 2021-2022 season; returning ports include Antalya and Sinop.
- U River Cruises (formerly U By Uniworld) now offers three brand-new itineraries in the region, debuting in April 2020. Seven-night itineraries will stop in Vienna, Brussels, Dusseldorf, Salzburg, Bratislava and more, with added overnight stays and more active excursions.
- Windstar Cruises is offering a variety of new 2020 itineraries, including the line's first-ever visit to Lemnos, Greece. The line is also returning to Istanbul (plus overnights), Cypress, Haifa, Ashdod, Alexandria and Port Said after a multi-year hiatus from all of those ports. The Corinth Canal, a passage only small ships can navigate, is an option onboard Windstar's Star Legend. Destinations include Greece, Turkey, Israel and Egypt. Late nights and overnights mean that cruisers can arrange overland tours to Petra, Jerusalem, and even Cairo and the Egyptian Pyramids.
- Oceania Cruises' itineraries now include overnight port calls, some offering as many as four overnights, along with new ports like Marmaris in Turkey for the 2020-2021 season. Other new ports for the line include Sir Bani Yas in the Emirates, Doha in Qatar, Al Bahrain in Bahrain, Al Khasab in Oman and Sabang in Indonesia.
- Emerald Waterways' 2020 season includes river cruising from Moscow to St. Petersburg in the form of a 12-Day Imperial Charms of Russia sailing.
- CrosiEurope's new 2020 itineraries, with departure dates between April and October 2020, include a six-night Italy cruise from Mantua to Venice (also available in reverse); six- and seven-night roundtrip cruises from Bordeaux to Royan along the Gironde Estuary and on the Garonne and Dordogne; and a five-night cruise along the Rhine Valley from Cochem to Basel. CroisiEurope will also offer cruises on the Seine, Rhone, Moselle, Loire, Guadiana and Guadalquivir, Douro, Danube, Elbe, Mekong, and Lake Kariba in Southern Africa, as well as on the Adriatic and Mediterranean seas and on the French canals.
- Emerald Waterways' new eight-day Tulips & the Rhine river cruise will take advantage of tulip season in 2020 with a visit to the famed Keukenhof Gardens near Amsterdam. The line will also offer a new eight-day Flavours of Burgundy and Provence itinerary sailing round trip from Lyon, France, with four departures across July and August 2020. Vacation extensions with pre- and post-cruise land tours are available through Emerald in major European cities like Paris, Madrid, Berlin and Prague.
- Scenic will offer two-dozen 2020 itineraries, including three new ones: a 12-day Spectacular South of France, eight-day Lower Danube Explorer to Budapest and Bucharest, and a 15-day Christmas Wonderland holiday voyage between Amsterdam and Budapest. Also new for 2020 is Basque Highlights, a four-day land exploration of Spain's Bay of Biscay coastline, which can be added to Bordeaux river cruises.
- Windstar is participating in the Sail Amsterdam Celebration in 2020 on Windstar's Wind Surf - the only commercial cruise line to attend the event held once every five years. Wind Surf will also be traversing to Rome and Monaco, visiting small ports that include Monte Carlo, Portofino, Bastia and Saint Raphael. This themed cruise, Rome & Grand Prix of Monaco, will be part of a Star Collector sailing that lets passengers pair the journey with another cruise for a longer voyage.
- Abercrombie & Kent's luxury expedition cruises for 2020 include Cruising the Baltic Sea: Copenhagen to St. Petersburg, a voyage that will call on Denmark, Poland, Lithuania, Sweden, Estonia, Finland and Russia.
- Azamara will be visiting four European ports for the first time in winter 2021 and spring 2022. Itineraries include Brest, France; Warrenpoint, Northern Ireland; Milos, Greece; and Pylos, Greece.
- Star Clippers' sailing ships have new port calls in the Mediterranean that include Stintino, Sardinia; Propriano, Corsica; and Vis, Korcula and Zadar in Croatia.
- Princess is undergoing the largest West Coast deployment ever for its 2020-2021 season, with destinations including Mexico, Hawaii and California. Ruby Princess, now homeporting in San Francisco, will be sailing 16-night roundtrip voyages to Hawaii, in addition to Mexico and the California coast. Regal Princess makes its West Coast debut on a seven-night wine tour of San Francisco, San Diego and Astoria, Oregon. Royal Princess will offer 25 five- and seven-night Mexican Riviera cruises out of Los Angeles, and Ruby Princess will have three 10-night Mexican Riviera cruises out of San Francisco. Emerald Princess and Star Princess will each take five 10-night Baja Peninsula cruises out of Los Angeles, as well as 28-night Hawaii and Tahiti cruises, also out of Los Angeles.
- Victory Cruise Lines' 2020 itineraries onboard the Victory I and Victory II include six new itineraries in addition to the line's 2019 inaugural season voyages. These include a nine-night Ontario-to-Chicago voyage that begins in Niagara Falls, an 11-night Halifax-to-New York sailing and a nine-night Chicago-to-Ontario voyage.
- Alaskan Dream Cruises added a new expedition vessel, 12-passenger Kruzof Explorer, to its fleet earlier this year. This allows for three new 2020 itineraries, with unique ports of call in Alaska including Pelican, Lituya Bay, Dall Island and Baranof Warm Springs. Sailings range from seven to 12 nights and explore the far reaches of Southeast Alaska.
- Disney Magic will offer one five-night cruise, roundtrip from New York, departing October 17, 2019, to Saint John (New Brunswick) and Halifax. It will include Halloween on the High Seas programming.
- Azamara will be visiting Tema (Accra), Ghana for the first time on a 21-night West Africa voyage onboard Azamara Pursuit, departing in November 2021.
---------- WEEK 25 ----------
Antigua and Barbuda welcomes Freewinds on 31st anniversary
The Minister of Tourism, The Honourable Charles Fernandez and other ministry of tourism representatives welcomed the Freewinds to Antigua on 21 June to commemorate the 31st anniversary of the vessel’s maiden voyage and 30 years since the Freewinds first called to Antigua. A plaque presentation included Captain Mike Napier and Freewinds Officials Port Captain Kenneth Weber, Jes Anderson Public Affairs Officer and Ruddy Rodriguez, a former Miss Universe.
Source: Cruise Industry News
Venice Mayor asks UNESCO to put city on World Heritage BlacklistThe mayor of Venice asked UNESCO to include the city on its world heritage site blacklist after the transport minister of Italy failed to deliver a plan to avoid huge cruise liners entering central canals. The years-long controversy on large cruise ships being allowed to sail on busy canals and dock close to the city centre has been reignited after MSC Opera crashed into a tourist boat in Giudecca canal on June 2. Mayor Brugnaro said the city didn’t feel represented anymore by Transport Minister Danilo Toninelli, who “has an arrogance I’ve never seen in my life and pretends of having understood in half a day what I haven’t understood in 57 years.” Following the crash in June, Mr Toninelli had promised a new plan to avoid the huge ships entering the central canals by the end of the month. However, he has not yet presented the plan. The accident reignited the debate over the damages caused by giant ship cruises to the historic infrastructure of Venice and their impact on the fragile environment. A UNESCO blacklist would restrict entry into the port city and is reserved for sights under significant danger.
Source: Cruise Mapper
A quartet of cruise ships arrived in Lerwick Harbour on Friday 21 June 2019
In an early morning rush, Cruise & Maritime Voyages’ Astor arrived from Bremerhaven, Germany, P&O’s Oriana from Torshavn, Faroe, and Holland American Line’s Zuiderdam from Reykjavik, Iceland, all before 10am, with Windstar Cruises Star Breeze arriving at lunchtime from Aalesund, Norway. Carrying around 4,200 passengers on board the four vessels, Astor and Star Breeze berthed at Mair’s Pier East and Holmsgarth 5 respectively, with Oriana and Zuiderdam at anchor. Astor will depart for Akureyri, Iceland, with the others heading for Scottish ports. It is the second time this season Lerwick has attracted four-in-a-day, with a quartet of small cruise vessels in port a few weeks ago. Lerwick Port Authority Cruise Manager, Melanie Henderson, said: “Single-ship visits are still the norm, but there are, increasingly, days when more than one are booked. In addition to the four today, there are 26 days this season with two or more cruise vessels, out of the 83 days when ships are scheduled. “It is unusual to have four ships in one day, although we do have the capacity to handle multiple calls simultaneously, both alongside and at anchor, which is complemented by highly-developed shore-side and welcome services, with an expanded network of visitor attractions.” Shetland was named recently in travel authority Lonely Planet’s latest top ten of must-see European destinations for 2019, the only UK location included. The 11 maiden cruise visits expected at Lerwick in 2019 include MSC Preziosa, the largest of the year at 139,072 gross tonnes and capacity for over 3,500 passengers due on 25 July, and Queen Victoria, the first Cunard vessel to visit Lerwick, on 31 July. A record-breaking 106 cruise ships are scheduled to visit this season.
Source: Cruise Europe
Ferry ride from Kerala to Maldives soon
India and the Maldives have decided to launch a passenger-cum-cargo ferry service between Kerala’s Kochi and Male, the capital of Maldives, via Kulhudhuffushi atoll in a bid to strengthen connectivity between the two countries and boost tourism. On his recent visit to the Maldives, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih have asked officials to expeditiously work towards starting the regular passenger-cum-cargo ferry service between the two countries. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the two sides for the establishment of passenger and cargo services by sea. The distance between Kochi and Male is about 700 kms, and between Kochi and Kulhudhuffushi atoll is 500 kms. Addressing the Maldivian Parliament, PM Modi said, “I am particularly happy that we have agreed upon a ferry service between the two countries.”
Source: Travel Daily Media
IATO signs agreement with Tourist Guides’ Federation of India to hike guide fee
The Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) has signed an agreement with the Tourist Guides’ Federation of India to increase the guide fee by approximately 10 percent effective from October 1. The new rates will be valid for a period of two years till September 30, 2021. Sharing more information, Rajeev Mehra, Vice President, IATO said that the agreement has been signed keeping in view the interest of certified tour guides across the country. “IATO President, Pronab Sarkar and TGFI President, Ajay Singh have signed an agreement to hike the fee. The fee and allowances agreed upon should be paid in full and are not negotiable. There will be no extra charges in addition to the rates agreed upon for escorting groups.” It was also decided that a suitable imprest amount may be given to the guides before the commencement of their agreement with the mutual understanding in case of outstation trips involving minimum one overnight. Usage and guides and fee structure shall be as per the laid down policies of the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India.
Source: Tourism Breaking News
The Port of Lisbon won, for the fourth year in a row, and for the fifth time, the prize for the best cruise port in Europe
This was during the 26th edition of the World Travel Awards Europe, held on 8th June in Funchal. The Minister of the Sea welcomed this prize that represents the result of the Strategy for the Increase of Portuguese Port Competitiveness, which also reflects the recognition for the work carried out in reinforcing the importance of Portugal Blue Economy. It was also with great pride that the Port of Lisbon Authority received the news of this prize, which constitutes a proof of the international recognition of the city of Lisbon and the commitment that the Port of Lisbon together with Lisbon Cruise Port (Cruise Terminal Operator) and all stakeholders involved had to promote Lisbon as one of the most privileged destinations for ships and cruise passengers. On the other hand, it reinforces the good performance and capacity of the Port of Lisbon regarding the cruise sector, in line with the good results recorded over the last years. The World Travel Awards distinguish the best examples of good practices in the tourism sector, and it is in this sense that APL has worked and will continue to work, together with the LCP concessionaire in pursuit of a common goal: to enhance the port and the city of Lisbon as a destination of cruises of excellence. Since 2009, when the city of Lisbon was chosen as the best cruise destination in Europe, in the World Travel Awards Europe held in Óbidos, the port and the city of Lisbon have been nominated for the World Travel Awards, at European and World level, for the best cruise port and destination categories, having won the two categories in the World Travel Awards Europe in 2014, 2016, 2017 and 2018.
Source: Cruise Europe
First-ever ferry services launched between Bulgaria and Turkey
The first sea bus transportation between Bulgaria and Turkey was started on Tuesday, June 18, as a ferry carried passengers from the Bulgarian port city of Burgas to the northwestern Turkish province of Kırklareli. The services were initiated by Istanbul's Sea Bus Operators (IDO) with an aim to boost tourism along Turkey's Black Sea coast. The first ferryboat (Sinan Pasha) reached a port in Igneada district after 5 hours. The first ferry passengers to make the international cruise were Bulgarian authorities and press members. IDO Chairman Hasan Ustundag said that they had succeeded in establishing the first service between the countries and they would increase the services if they reached the predicted passenger potential. According to District Governor Cafer Ekinci, they would initiate the necessary work in order to increase the number of ferry services.
Source: Cruise Mapper
---------- WEEK 24 ----------
Cruise traffic grows in Visby
The Swedish port of Visby is seeing traffic rise to the tune of 30 percent this year, with a schedule of 105 cruise calls and 120,000 guests. 2020’s numbers suggest a 10 percent uptick in cruise traffic, said a spokesperson. This didn’t happen by accident, as a new cruise pier was opened in 2018 that is able to take two large ships at the same time, up to 340 meters in length.
Source: Cruise Industry News
Amsterdam becomes homeport for Norwegian Cruise Line ship
US cruise shipping company Norwegian Cruise Line has commenced its first season of cruises from Amsterdam, the Netherlands, with the European debut of Norwegian Pearl, growing the brand’s presence to six ships in the region for the first time. The ship’s captain and officers received a plaque and a key to the city of Amsterdam from the Port of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Cruise Port and Passenger Terminal Amsterdam on June 6. On May 11, the 2,400-passenger Norwegian Pearl embarked on its first summer season in Europe, where it became the largest ship to sail on the Thames River at Tilbury in Essex, England. The 93,530 gross ton vessel will cruise the North and Baltic Seas until end of June, before repositioning to Rome for a season of varied Mediterranean voyages. During its first season in Europe, Norwegian Pearl will sail 10-14-day cruises to the Greek Isles, the Mediterranean, and the French, Spanish and Italian rivieras from Amsterdam, Barcelona and Venice and Rome through October 14. Norwegian Cruise Line has a fleet of sixteen ships sailing to nearly 300 world destinations.
Source: World Maritime News
Cruise ships rolling into Milwaukee Port boost city’s economy
Sun, sails and ships cruising into the lakefront —a taste of summer rolled into Milwaukee Tuesday morning with the first of an expected 11 cruise ships docking at the port this season. It was just one of the many ships cruising the Great Lakes to get to what Mayor Barrett has coined the ‘Capitol of America’s Fresh Coast.’
Source: Late Cruise News
Two cruise ships arrive to Portland Port at once!
The arrival of AIDA AIDAura and Regent Seven Seas – Seven Seas Explorer signalled the first cruise ship double header for Portland Port this cruise season. The two cruise ships docked alongside each other with one on the outer coaling pier and one on the deep water berth. The combined duo brought ashore nearly two thousand passengers. Portland Port is fast becoming renowned for providing a first class welcome and were all geared up for this dual arrival. This was the first of many double visits with another 6 expected over the season. 'These are exciting times' said Ian Mcquade Commercial Manager,' we at Portland Port really enjoy having two ships in at once, there's a real buzz in the atmosphere and it's a great double boost to the local economy in one day. We are keen to continue to grow as a Port so that we can encourage more dual visits of cruise ships in the future.'
Source: Cruise Europe
The must know things about the Manhattan Cruise Terminal
Manhattan is a very big city and home to the longest running cruise port in the United States. Whether you’re traveling to the cruise terminal for the first time, or you’re a frequent “flyer”, it is important to learn everything you can about the terminal and the surrounding area. The Manhattan Cruise Terminal has only two piers (88 and 90) and can comfortably accommodate three ships at once at each. Norwegian Cruise Line is the only cruise liner to use the Manhattan Cruise Terminal year round, while seasonal travel is used by Carnival, Crystal, Cunard, Holland, Princess, and Disney. Manhattan is also a popular port of call for various other cruise liners, including Aida Cruises, Costa Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises. If you’re driving in, dropping off passengers and luggage before parking is not advised as you have to exit the terminal in order to park. Instead, park first, and then drop off your luggage at the second level for check-in. Once checked in, the porters will deliver your luggage to the ship, while you follow the posted signs for where you are to board your vessel. When you return, you’ll first be directed to the baggage hall to get your luggage, then to the parking garage, or any awaiting coaches, taxis, or limos. There are other numerous ways to get to the terminal if driving is not your chosen mode of transportation. Many people plan to arrive two or three days before their cruise ships out. This is a great way to visit the city and do some sightseeing, while also allowing for travel delays. Checking the weather forecast before coming to New York for your cruise will make planning your trip easier, especially if you’ll be travelling during an especially rainy or snowy period. New York tends to have mild spring and fall seasons, while summer can get very warm, and winter can be frigid with lots of snow. There’s something for everyone here to enjoy, so we highly recommend arriving two or three days in advance to take advantage of everything the Big Apple has to offer: City Nightlife, Museums, Music, Live Plays at the Big Apple! New York City is a shopper’s paradise. The most popular spot for shopping is down Fifth Avenue, Columbus Circle and Times Square. Many families who travel worry about the unsafe areas of NYC, especially in regards to their children. There are several kid-friendly attractions and places to visit around the city so that even the littlest travelers can enjoy their stay. If you have a full day to really enjoy some of New York’s history, take your family to visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. There is a lot of planning that is involved when going on a cruise. You can’t just book your cruise and wing it. If you try, you will not enjoy your trip as much as you would like. Instead, you’ll find yourself stressed and struggling to do the things that you should’ve planned on ahead of time. From weather delays, to missing luggage, to possibly forgetting to pack an essential item, it’s always good to be prepared should the worst happen. And even if nothing happens, having a plan can help everyone enjoy the trip. Just knowing the history of your chosen homeport, where it’s located, the best ways to get there, and what to watch out for as far as traffic and weather is concerned, is enough to ease your travel worries. We also recommend allowing extra time just in case of delays and using that time to explore the city. Have a safe and fun vacation to the Big Apple and beyond!
Source: Cruise Hive
The Isle of Man government and the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company (IoMSP), a passenger shipping company, have signed a new strategic sea services agreement.
As informed, the historic agreement has taken over six years to negotiate and sets the direction of the Steam Packet for the next 25 years. The deal includes a wide range of requirements to ensure that the island has the sea services it needs for its long-term economic and social wellbeing. In return for the almost exclusive use of the island’s linkspans, IoMSP is required to invest in new vessels and provide regular services throughout the year. The shipping company has committed itself to a reduction in carbon emissions. The government is the sole shareholder of the Steam Packet. Under the deal worth GBP 124 million, the government bought 100% of MIOM Ltf, the parent company of IoMSP. Founded in 1830, the company has two vessels that operate regular ferry services between the Isle of Man, Heysham and Liverpool and seasonal services between the Isle of Man, Belfast and Dublin.
Source: World Maritime News
Berwick Harbour’s new landing pontoon unlocks Northumberland’s ancient gems
A new landing pontoon inside Berwick Harbour’s Tweed dock is now operational and can be reached by cruise ship passengers via tenders. Further plans to install a passenger landing jetty are being considered. Local visitor attractions around ancient Berwick include the town’s surrounding and completely intact Elizabethan Walls built in 1558 and its Lowry Trail and barracks. Northumberland is rich with castles and stately homes with key historical attractions including Bamburgh Castle and the village of Bamburgh or Lindisfarne - reached across a causeway at low water. Visitors can explore the island’s 16th century castle, 7th century Priory and St Aidan’s Winery, which produces Lindisfarne Mead. Other local attractions include Alanwick Garden with its contemporary theme and treetop walkways and a poison”garden among other features. Medieval Alanwick Castle, used for interior and exterior shots in the Harry Potter movie is about half an hour away. Farne-islands now owned by the National Trust is a group of islands off the north east coast that are home to wildlife including puffins, Atlantic grey seals, Arctic terns and eider ducks. Boat trips from the village of Seahouses are available. Kielder Water and Forest Park features trails for mountain bikers and walkers, waterside activities and an Observatory. The 900-year-old tradition of salmon fishing on the River Tweed is located only 100 metres from the landing pontoon at Tweed Dock. The only salmon net fishing station using cobles left in the UK. Northumberland National Park is the northernmost national park in England and features the Cheviot Hills, Kielder water and one hour away is Hadrian’s Wall. Chain Bridge or Union bridge is the oldest suspension bridge in the world still carrying road traffic. The bridge crosses the Tweed and the England - Scotland border is halfway across the bridge. On the English side only 200mtr from the bridge is Chain Bridge honey - honey farm that produces both honey and beeswax products. There is a shop and visitor centre, plus a vintage vehicles and memorabilia museum and garden. The vintage vehicles include a red London bus which could be used to take passengers to/from the Honey farm. River trips up the Tweed and Sea Trips are available, with dolphin watching in Berwick bay.
Source: Seatrade Cruise News
Welcome to the Port of Lyngdal - in Norway`s far South.
Lyngdal is the perfect first - or last - stop on the journey through Norway. When you go ashore in Lyngdal, you will arrive close to the beautiful sandy beach innermost in the Rosfjord. Staff from tourist information are at hand to answer any questions. Take a stroll along the seaside promenade, a refreshing bath in the sea, or a walk up to the vantage point "Månen" with views over the entire fjord and the town of Lyngdal. From the port of Lyngdal it is only 3 km to the town centre - an easy 30 minutes walk. A Shuttle bus runs continuously between the seafront and the town. Lyngdal has a small, charming town centre With numerous unique little shops. The region of Lister gives an opportunity to experience both coastal landscapes with long white beaches and epic mountainous terrain with boisterous river rapids. Typical of this region are the small towns with their white, weatherboarded houses. These coastal towns have long-standing maritime traditions, and there are plenty of exciting stories from the Napoleonic Wars. Follow in the footsteps of the Vikings, explore the stunning cultural landscape, and get a taste of real Norwegian traditional food.
Source: Cruise Europe
---------- WEEK 23 ----------
Tahiti for the Holidays
Paul Gauguin Cruises, a cruise ship operator in the South Pacific, has announced its two 7-night ‘Tahiti & the Society Islands’ voyages on The Gauguin. During its ‘Tahiti for the Holidays’ promotion, Paul Gauguin Cruises is offering savings of up to USD 1,900 per person off 7-night Tahiti & the Society Islands December holiday voyages aboard The Gauguin when booked from 3-15 June 2019. The savings are on top of 50% off brochure fares and include roundtrip airfare from Los Angeles or San Francisco. Additionally, deposits are also reduced to USD 250 per person. Plus, a special single traveller offer is also available.
Source: Travel Daily Media
Limassol, the cruise gateway to Cyprus, makes an attractive combination with Holy Land itineraries.
‘Limassol is a modern European city with a historical past dating back over 4,000 years has a strong infrastructure, many hotels, good roads, mountains and beaches. Limassol cruise port east quay is dedicated to cruise ships. The passenger terminal was officially opened last year but will undergo further development with relocation of the main entrance planned for completion next year. Pullmantur will make its maiden call in September with a further two or three calls planned next year. Royal Caribbean Cruises plans to upscale the size of the vessel scheduled for visits to Cyprus next year so it can take more passengers, and planning to increase the number of calls. German operator TUI has already made one call this year and will return in September. Silversea usually calls Limassol once a year, and Silver Shadow will visit in October. The cruise terminal is served by local buses to the seafront and an hourly intercity bus. An arrival event can be arranged with the port in cooperation with the municipality to greet guests with live music, local dance and sweets. The Ministry of Tourism attends every event, hosting a kiosk to provide maps and local information. Kourion archaeological site, located on the west coast of Limassol, is well known for its ancient theatre and mosaics that adorn the floors of the house of Eustolios. ‘Some of the archaeological sites are so intact a lot of cruise passengers will connect with that experience,' Royal Caribbean's Paige said. Wine tours can be booked for groups at Lambouris Winery and Omodos, a quaint hillside village in a picturesque setting, offers locally produced arts and crafts. The group can also visit Agios Georgios fishing harbour and enjoyed sea kayaking. Limassol old town located next to the new marina. Kika’s Garden, a jewel in the crown, is a stop at for a taste of speciality home-baked bread, olives, marmalade and a taste of home-cooked dishes, set amongst the backdrop of scenic views, and would be great for shore excursions because of the sustainability of the home-grown produce.
House of Dionysos, a Roman villa with one of the largest and best preserved mosaic floors, best followed by a photo stop at Rock of Aphrodite. Nicosia highlights include a visit of Cyprus Museum, the old town within its Venetian walls, a walk through Ledra Street, a shopping area, and the traditional neighborhood Laiki Geitonia, that's been restored to traditional character.
Source: Seatrade Cruise News
First cruise ship in 4 years visits Istanbul
The port of Istanbul welcomed the 10-story Seven Seas Voyager, carrying a total of 750 passengers, docked at Sarayburnu Port on Thursday, June 6. Karakoy Port Local Authority and Deputy Governor Mehmet Kalyoncu said that the arrival of a ship in a world-renowned port city like Istanbul for the first time in 4 years was a source of happiness for them. The Regent Seven Seas Voyager, mostly carrying travellers from Greece and Italy, arrived at Sarayburnu at 8:30 a.m. Karakoy Port Local Authority and Deputy Governor Kalyoncu headed a delegation to welcome the cruise ship and a welcoming ceremony was held for the luxury Voyager.
Source: Cruise Mapper
China will restrict visitor numbers at the most popular section of the Great Wall of China to ease congestion.
To ensure carrying capacity limit of 65,000 a day, online ticket sales will be introduced. It applies to the Badaling section located in Beijing's Yanqing district. The limit was set after extensive research into safety and visitor experience issues. The section received nearly 10 million visitors last year, peaking at more than 80,000 a day during busy holidays. The online booking system was rolled out on June 1 and visitors can make a booking one week in advance using a valid ID or passport. "This is not the first time that a scenic spot has adopted online ticketing, and it will reduce waiting time and provide a more comfortable experience for visitors," said Song Rui, Director - Tourism Research Center, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences.
Source: TravelBizMonitor
Vladivostok conducts turnaround operation for Costa neoRomantica
In the Russian Far East, Vladivostok conducted a partial turnaround for the Costa neoRomantica earlier this week that saw 169 Russian guests disembark, while 160 guests boarded the ship for a Jewels of the Far East itinerary that started on May 26 in Yokohama. The cruise is set to finish in Tokyo on June 9. The next opportunity for Russian passengers to take a cruise from Vladivostok will be in September on the Spectrum of the Seas which will sail from Shanghai through Vladivostok with port stops in Maizuru (Kyoto) and Fukuoka. According to a statement from the port, the Russian source market contributed 78,000 cruise passengers in 2018, up 35 percent year-over-year. In 2020 the port expects three partial turnarounds in June from Costa, with itineraries sailing from Japan and including Japanese and South Korean ports. It is not the first time Vladivostok hosted turnaround calls, having hosted passenger vessels in the 1990s run by local companies. "Also there is huge potential for fly and cruise and drive and cruise operations for Vladivostok for North Eastern Chinese provinces (Heilongjiang and Jilin) which have the population of about 70 million but no ports," the port said, in a statement. Vladivostok Sea Terminal has begun expanding a border checkpoint to expand space for immigration control and enhance services for turnaround passengers.
Source: Cruise Industry News
The BRIC summer rush in Europe has begun.
Despite global slowdown concerns and political tension between leading economies, travel sentiment towards Europe proves upbeat for the summer period in both China and Brazil. According to the latest results of the Long-Haul Travel Barometer, the travel sentiment index in both markets improved by four points over the same period last year. The Barometer, a joint initiative of the European Travel Commission (ETC), the European Tourism Association (ETOA) and Eurail, measured the intention of 1,000 people from Brazil, China, Japan, Russia and the US to travel to Europe between May-August 2019.
Europe remains high on Chinese wishlist More than one in two (54%) Chinese respondents indicated that they have a European destination in mind for the summer period. This reflects well on the 2018 EU-China Tourism Year, the success of which continues to be felt, the increasing affluence of Chinese citizens, improved air connectivity and visa relaxation policies introduced in some European countries. Digging deeper into the survey results, 70% of Chinese travellers have indicated that they will stay in Europe between seven and 14 nights and are likely to combine an average of four destinations in a single trip.
Political change in Brazil brings optimism In Brazil, intention to travel improves in the summer months, with two in five (39%) respondents having a European destination in mind. The optimism brought by government change and monetary policy capping interest rates bode well for people’s travel sentiment, yet it remains to be seen whether this will translate into actual behaviour as economic trends remain negative.
Russians show keener interest While Russian sentiment to travel to Europe was sluggish at the start of 2019, results for the summer months point to a revitalised interest for European destinations, with Germany at the top of the wish-list. However, the constant fluctuation in the rouble exchange rate, a hike in value-added taxes, surging inflation and a stagnant labour market might drag actual travel behaviour down.
US travel sentiment dips Fading fiscal stimulus and trade uncertainty have dwindled consumer confidence putting pressure on Americans’ travel plans to Europe this summer, with US sentiment index declining from 103 index points at the beginning of the year to 96 for the summer months.
Japan mood remains negative The global slowdown weakens Japan’s stressed economy in Q1 2019, weighing on consumers’ confidence and households spending. Just 18% of respondents are planning to visit Europe between May-August 2019, following a mixed demand from the Japanese travel market in 2018 and early 2019. Of all surveyed respondents, Japanese tourists are most likely to stay in Europe for the shortest period, with 52% of respondents planning to stay for less than seven days.
Source: Travel Daily Media
The Nunavut territory is expecting 10 ships calling at about 51 communities in 2019.
Last year also saw 10 ships and 3,404 passengers and the same number of passengers is expected this year, according to Nancy Guyon, director of tourism and cultural industries with the government of Nunavut’s department of economic development and transportation. “We are not seeing a huge spike in traffic, but rather steadily increasing growth with one ship added every year or every other year,” she said. Most ships travel up the east coast of Baffin Island, with a few going into the Northwest Passage, Guyon explained. “Many ships sail up the west coast of Greenland before coming into Canada. Pond Inlet is our most visited community by far, with Resolute, Iqaluit, Pangnirtung, Cambridge Bay and Gjoa Haven being communities that are also visited often.” Infrastructure can be a bottleneck and the seasonal harvesting activities going on in the summer also mean restricted access to some areas for cruise ships. Guyon said that while some communities, like the capital Iqaluit, can handle more passengers, others like Pond Inlet are nearing their capacity in terms of passengers. Attractions range from cultural and scientific programming to wildlife viewing, including polar bears, archeological and palaeontological sites, bird sanctuaries and marine conservation areas, historic whaling and explorer landmarks, and the communities themselves. Among efforts to accommodate the ships and their passengers, Nalunaiqsijiit is a new program to train 12 Inuit every year to work aboard cruise vessels as expedition staff or support crew. The candidates go through four weeks of intensive training and also intern on a ship on one voyage during the season. The program covers expedition guide training, leadership skills, zodiac driving and polar bear guard training, and the individuals receive the appropriate certificates.
Source: Cruise Industry News
---------- WEEK 22 ----------
The Crown Iris cruise ship arrived in Larnaca from Haifa thus marking the beginning of a new line between the coastal cities.
According to Larnaca Tourism Board, the vessel, which has a capacity of 2,000 passengers, will sail from Haifa to Larnaca on a weekly basis until November and will often dock overnight in Larnaca. The Tourism Board said that passengers will have the opportunity "to participate in trips in the district, such as in Lefkara and Athienou and other nearby towns, while others will be able to visit the center of the city." Crown Iris was welcomed with celebrations and a performance by the accordion orchestra “Daniel Sabotinov” at the port of Larnaca. Travelers were offered Cypriot delicacies. Andreas Vyras, Larnaca mayor, thanked the company organizing the cruises and spoke about the aim of the city to increase the number of ships that chose it as a cruise destination. He also spoke about the importance of the planned port's development and the building of Larnaca Marina and urged the state to proceed in negotiations with the investor.
Source: Cruise Mapper
AnaMarina sets new bar in Vietnam’s luxury yacht scene
Scheduled to be completed this year, AnaMarina will be a new home for luxury yachts in Asia, as well as a tourist hot spot for watersports enthusiasts. AnaMarina is developed by AnaMarina Joint Stock Company, a member of Focus Vietnam Holdings, and designed by Camper & Nicholsons Marinas, one of the world’s most prestigious marina design and management companies. It can accommodate up to 220 yachts and is expected to set a new bar as the first international standard marina in the country. According to the group, they are “building not only a new home for the yachts in Asia — but also an entertaining and interesting tourist destination”. Scheduled to be completed this year, the marina will offer a wide range of water sports from diving courses to paragliding, as well as three restaurant areas: Wheel House, Club House and Surf Bar. Furthermore, its facilities can host meetings, weddings and a variety of events with experienced staff. AnaMarina is an exclusive community for members “who push the boundaries of what it means to be a leader in today’s society”. With this mantra, its members will be able to enjoy refined living in an elegant and contemporary ambience. In recent years, Nha Trang has been gaining popularity as a tourist destination with plush resorts opening in the area. Once a sleepy village, it is becoming a global hub with its convenient location, just a short flight from Ho Chi Minh City. “People in Saigon have yachts but the dilemma is Saigon [Ho Chi Minh] isn’t near the sea,” said Dang Hieu, AnaMarina’s chief executive officer. “It’s on a river and I regret when boats are moored on boring water.”
Source: Travel Daily Media
Royal Caribbean has signed a 10 year agreement that will see the cruise line double their visits to Antigua and Barbuda
In addition to the increased port visits to the Caribbean nation, the agreement includes the development of facilities at the port including a pier that will be able to accommodate the largest class of cruise ships in the world, the Oasis class. Royal Caribbean will be working with Global Ports Holdings in completing the project. The agreement was signed by Royal Caribbean’s CEO Michael Bayley and the Minister of Tourism, Investment and Economic Development, Charles Fernandez. Five Royal Caribbean cruise ships are currently scheduled to visit Antigua later this year, Freedom of the Seas, Serenade of the Seas, Vision of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas, and Explorer of the Seas.
Source: Cruise Fever
Ocean Luxe LLP launches venture with a special cruise commencing at the Gateway of India
Ocean Luxe LLP, which is the parent company for three unique brands launched its venture with a special cruise commencing at the Gateway of India. The company, spearheaded by Shahid Basheer, Zarina Elias and Rustom Mistri will provide customised sailing and yachting vacations in India and around the world. The brands encapsulated under the Ocean Luxe LLP umbrella are the eponymous Ocean Luxe, bookyourboat.in and Yachtweek. Though intrinsically linked by the joy of sailing, each of the three Ocean Luxe brands provide vastly different experiences and cater to different audiences. Ocean Luxe LLP hopes to successfully shatter the myth that yachts and sailing vacations are exclusively the prerogative of the super-wealthy or experienced sailors, by giving a wider clientele a glimpse of life out on the waves. On Friday, May 17, Ocean Luxe welcomed invited guests and members of the press aboard Genesis, a luxury yacht for a sunset sail around Mumbai harbor. Invitees had the opportunity to learn more about what Ocean Luxe has to offer, meet members of the team and enjoy an evening of conversation and canapes against the backdrop of the sun setting on the horizon of the Arabian Sea. Guests also witnessed a detailed audio-visual presentation, showing breathtaking images of destinations served by Ocean Luxe as well as some of the yachts that the company charters to its clients. A true glimpse at the #LuxeLife. The event was partnered by The White Owl, RAW Pressery and Debbie’s and The Wrapping Company. Shahid Basheer, one of the partners of Ocean Luxe says ‘For a country with such a long coastline, very few Indians have taken to the seas recreationally. He said, “We at Ocean Luxe are on a mission to change that. Our goal is to curate the best sailing experiences for our clients, both on Indian shores as well as at beautiful global destinations.”
Source: TravelBiz Monitor
Cruise Isle of Man welcomes a ‘Week of Maidens’
Cruise Isle of Man has welcomed three inaugural calls in what they are calling, the Week of Maidens, which began on May 22. Rob Callister MHK, political member with responsibility for Visit Isle of Man and motorsport, commented: “Receiving three inaugural calls [Hapag-Lloyd’s Hanseatic Nature, Overseas Adventure Travel’s Corinthian and Vantage Cruises’ Variety Voyager] in one week is extremely rare and a fantastic result for our cruise consultants, Neptumar. It is wonderful to see a range of regular and new cruise lines visiting the island and taking advantage of all we have to offer. “The work the team has been doing in promoting not only the Isle of Man but also our Manx produce is extremely beneficial to the Island’s economy as we continue to increase the value of cruise visitors. The recent Cruise Welcome Scheme has been well received with fifteen businesses on board in just three weeks, promoting incentives and offers to cruise passengers. ‘We are delighted to see cruise ships visiting the ports of Douglas, Peel and Port Erin in 2019 and welcome the benefits this brings to all areas of the Island as we look to diversify the number of sites visited by cruise passengers and crew.” Vantage Cruises first contacted the Isle of Man cruise team in 2018 and have booked 10 calls for Variety Voyager during 2019 and have already booked their new ship, Ocean Explorer, for three calls in 2021. Passengers will enjoy guided tours, bespoke and artisan activities, heritage sites and world-renowned vintage transport, with the Corinthian using Isle of Man Railways’ Dining Car on all 10 of her visits this year.
Source: Cruise Europe
Piraeus Port luring Chinese cruise visitors
Piraeus, Greece's largest port, is interested in securing more Chinese cruise passengers while acknowledging that the potential of the Chinese market is huge, a senior Piraeus Port Authority (OLP) official said on Tuesday. Speaking at the 5th Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum, which opened here on Tuesday, OLP Strategic Planning and Marketing Manager Theodora Riga stressed the importance of attracting more visitors from China and presented a OLP report on Chinese cruise passengers visiting Piraeus. The survey revealed that the typical Chinese cruise visitor has a budget of some 10,000 euros and spends more than seven days on the trip. Forty-five percent of all Chinese cruise passengers are younger than 40, while the same age group accounts for only 31 percent of passengers arriving from the US. "The Chinese have various options in the Mediterranean, such as Venice, Barcelona, etc., but Piraeus is also one of their targets," said Riga in her address at the event, which will conclude on Wednesday. "We are constantly seeking to promote Piraeus as a destination for Chinese cruise passengers," she told Xinhua. China is the second largest source market for global cruise tourism with 2.4 million passengers per year, a long way behind the US with 11.4 million passengers, said Thomas Boardley, secretary general of Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) Europe, at the forum. About 300,000 Chinese tourists are expected to travel to Greece by all modes of transport this year, doubling last year's figure of 150,000, Riga said.
Source: ekathimerini
Inspired by the Orient: Royal Caribbean sails to China and Japan
Award-winning cruise liner Royal Caribbean International have included a slew of year-round cruise sailings to destinations across China and Japan, aimed at offering global and Indian cruise enthusiasts unique oriental travel experiences. Two of the best ships from Royal Caribbean International’s fleet, Quantum of the Seas and Spectrum of the Seas, will be undertaking these journeys. The new year-round cruise sailings will offer the cruise liner’s two ships — Quantum of the Seas and Spectrum of the Seas. They will begin and end from the Chinese ports of Shanghai and Beijing alternatively while taking guests across various regions in Japan. The itineraries will range from four to five nights and seven nights, while a single 10 night ‘Best of Japan and Russia’ cruise takes the guests to the Soviet. Also available are cruises that cater to the summer holiday season of Indian travellers, incorporating the holidays of Independence Day, Rakshabandhan, Janmasthami, etc. Varun Chadha, CEO, TIRUN Travel Marketing (the India Representative for Royal Caribbean Cruises), said: “The dedicated year-round sailing with an itinerary developed keeping in mind the Asian guests is of growing interest to the Indian outbound travel. “Royal Caribbean International has also transformed its ships, from infrastructure to experiences, to maximise the convenience of travellers from the sub-continent. Customised menus, a culturally aware crew well-versed in multiple languages and an aesthetic sense that pays homage to the rich Oriental legacy — Royal Caribbean International’s ships are equipped with all this and more. “These sailings will surely make travellers from the sub-continent, and all over the world, be proud of what Asia stands for.” Further focusing on the convenience factor, while cruising onboard a Royal Caribbean cruise guests will not require a Japanese visa, only a Chinese visa would suffice. The cruises depart from Beijing and Shanghai in China and travel to destinations such as Nagasaki, Fukuoka, Shimonoseki, Kumamoto, Kyoto, Kagoshima, Okinawa and others in Japan.
Source: TravelBiz Monitor
The Spectrum of the Seas docked at the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal in Hong Kong on Thursday, making her inaugural call to the city.
The ship was scheduled to stay overnight, and then depart on her way to Shanghai, her homeport for the summer. The new Quantum-Ultra class ship has been built with the Chinese market in mind, and will sail from Chinese homeports year-round.
Source: Cruise Industry News
Kalundborg construction is complete
On April 22, Cruise & Maritime Voyages’ Magellan was the first to call at the New West Port in Kalundborg. Construction was completed just two weeks prior to her arrival. New West Port, which has an area of total 330,000m2, a 500m-long quay and a water depth of 15m, is part of the city’s new port area. Magellan’s call was handled in cooperation with the Port of Kalundborg, SDK Cruise as the ship’s agent and BDP Cruise as the tour operator. “The new terminal is a welcome addition and we are positive that Kalundborg will attract many more cruise calls in the future,” said Henning Schou, director SDK Cruise. To mark the occasion, an ‘open port’ event was organised on the quayside for the locals together with the passengers and crew. This included vintage cars and motorcycles, tents with refreshments and small shops, live music and entertainment. “Kalundborg has an ideal location, both as a transit port and homeport and, from today, no cruiseship will be too big for our port,” commented Michael Larsen, sales manager Port of Kalundborg. The port is located about 100km from Copenhagen Airport which is just over an hour’s drive away. The T-route, which is the deepwater entrance to the Baltic, is just next to Kalundborg, making it a sustainable choice especially for the larger cruise ships. “The port is very comfortable for large size vessels, and there is plenty of water depth. The services are excellent, both from sea and shoreside,” commented Captain Michail Margaritis, master of Magellan. About 65% of passengers typically choose to go on a shore excursion to one of the many local attractions in the area but many go on a day trip to Copenhagen, whilst others spend the day in the well-preserved medieval town. Complimentary shuttle buses are provided to the centre of town, and free admission is offered to the museum and the concert at the Church of our Lady.
Source: Cruise Europe
---------- WEEK 21 ----------
Carnival Cruise Line formed an exclusive partnership with the Harlem Globetrotters and will act as the basketball team's official cruise line sponsor worldwide.
This will involve more than 150 of the team’s shows across the US. The Harlem Globetrotters’ always-entertaining exhibition games will be enhanced by Carnival’s signature brand of fun through in-game integrations, giveaways and joint marketing efforts such as a designated Choose Fun Zone seating area with branded signage, playful décor, special player interactions and more. This partnership will also provide Carnival with traditional marketing assets to support their charitable partners’ initiatives. A video shot on board Carnival Horizon featuring Harlem Globetrotters stars Hammer Harrison and Dragon Taylor showcases the dynamic duo’s impressive skills as they make shots from high above Carnival’s SkyRide aerial attraction and Lido Deck. The video can be viewed here. Inductees of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and known for their incredible dribbling, shooting and dunking skills as well as their crowd interaction, the Harlem Globetrotters have performed for more than 148m fans in 124 countries since 1926. Now performing 400 shows each year, the team has become world-renowned and showcases some of basketball's best players.
Source: Cruise Industry News
MSC Cruises announced new, extended 2-week itineraries in the Persian Gulf (on MSC Bellissima) for winter 2019-2020 season, with Doha as ship's new homeport.
The first cruise is departing on November 28, 2019. Due to a new partnership with Qatar Airways, passengers will be able to fly from London, Paris, Rome, Vienna, or Milan to Doha as part of a fly-cruise package with Qatar Airways. On arrival in Doha, travelers have a full day to explore the city prior to the sunset departure. Qatar has become one of world's fastest-growing must-see destinations in the last few years due to immense investment in unique facilities and attractions. Combined with being a center for Arab history and culture, it now attracts around 2 million vacationers per year. During the exclusive 14-day voyages, guests will be able to explore a variety of destinations, with a total of 9 ports of call, including Dubai (2 overnight stays). MSC Cruises will deploy two liners in the Persian Gulf from November through March. MSC Lirica will sail on 11-night itineraries as well as on 14-night voyages that call also to India. MSC Bellissima will also offer 7-night Gulf journeys embarking in either Dubai or Abu Dhabi.
Source: Cruise Mapper
Turkish Airlines adds a daily Bosphorus Cruise starting from May 1 till October 31 as part of the Touristanbul experience.
Passengers of Turkish Airlines will now be able to experience the magnificent Bosphorus strait in Istanbul and all the sights along its length, while being amazed by the Old city and all its significant monuments on your layover. Like any other airline, Turkish Airlines offers a free layover service to all international transit passengers flying through Istanbul with a 6-24 hour layover. Customers can enjoy a starry night cruise with breathtaking views of waterfront palaces, mosques & bridges followed by a luxurious dinner as part of the Bosphorus tour. With its customary hospitality, Turkish Airlines takes pride in curating a delightfully different experience for its passengers and going beyond expectations with its array of unique products and services. The complementary Touristanbul service includes transfers, access to historical sights of interest as well as a sampling of Turkey’s famed cuisine. To enjoy the benefits of Touristanbul, passengers must have an international transit flight through Istanbul with Turkish Airlines and layover of 6-24 hours. Tours depart daily from the Hotel Desk at Istanbul Airport, with daily tours. The tour programme includes a combination of some of Istanbul’s world famous locations such as Topkapi Palace, Sultan Ahmet Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Grand Bazaar, Galata Tower, Dolmabahce Palace and many more.
Source: TravelBizMonitor
St. Maarten Seeing High Cruise Guest Repeat Rate
It’s been five years since St. Maarten hit the 2 million passenger mark. While arrivals are expected to miss that mark in the 2019-2020 season – with 1.6 million passengers expected – the island is concentrating on internal improvements. “As a mature cruise destination with a high passenger repeat rate, we cannot have a stale product. Our tag line in that sense is to urge persons to come and Rediscover St. Maarten while we reinvent our cruise product through a multifaceted approach in tandem with the tourism authority,” said Alexander Gumbs, business development and marketing manager at Port St. Maarten. The big story last year was recovery from Hurricane Irma. Now, it’s taking things a step further. “Post Irma, the destination has seen many tour operators and attraction owners reinvest in their products,” Gumbs said. There are new rainforest adventure tours with zip-lines, new beach experiences, new restaurants and shopping experiences in Philipsburg. The Symphony of the Seas made her inaugural call to the island in November. To keep up with demand for the Eastern Caribbean, new berths or berth expansion might be imminent, he said. The island’s homeporting terminal was rebuilt after Hurricane Irma. It caters to small and midsize luxury vessels. “The port team is working on enhancing the experience through the introduction of mood boards sharing history and information. The central park zone will be developed, giving passengers an area to relax and enjoy the pristine views of the island,” Gumbs said. “The destination is working towards nightlife attractions to cater to late night and or overnighting vessels in upcoming seasons.”
Source: Cruise Industry News
UnCruise Adventures announced its schedule of Alaska voyages for 2020 with a total of 117 departures on 7 inclusive itineraries throughout Southeast Alaska.
5 itineraries call at Glacier Bay National Park and all voyages feature daily adventures for varying abilities and interests. From April through September, expedition ships and boutique yachts sail adventure cruises lasting from 1 to 2 weeks from homeports of Ketchikan, Juneau, Sitka, and Seattle. UnCruise Adventures begins spring 2020 cruises in April. Alaska Awakening highlights spring's benefits and encourages travellers to visit Southeast Alaska during the year's driest months. Rates for UnCruise weeklong Alaska itineraries begin at US$3,195 per person, double occupancy and include all beverages including alcohol, meals, adventure activities, hot tub, fitness equipment, and transfers day of the cruise. A 6-night pre-cruise package is offered to Talkeetna and Denali National Park.
Source: Cruise Mapper
The Turks and Caicos islands topped the 1 million-passenger mark in 2018.
The extraordinary achievement was cause for celebration but also shown light on areas needing improvement, said tourism officials. The Ministry of Tourism is developing regulations to manage unregulated beach vendors taking advantage of the increased cruise passenger arrivals, including creating a designated beach-vender zone. The idea is to create opportunities for small- and medium-size business that benefit both the tourism product and the local economy. Efforts are underway to open a downtown welcome center with shops and restaurants. A new welcome booth at the cruise port will be built this year. Work away from the cruise port underway includes redevelopment of Governor’s Beach, a creation of a donkey sanctuary and other inland activities and beautification projects. Plans are underway for pier expansions that would accommodate Carnival’s new Mardi Gras.
Source: Cruise Industry News
CroisiEurope's new ship to sail Asia, Middle East, Med, Québec, Great Lakes
CroisiEurope's newly acquired La Belle des Océans (ex Silver Discoverer) is going to debut in October on cruises in Asia before sailing to India, the Middle East, the Greek Islands and the Mediterrranean, then operating on the St. Lawrence and the Great Lakes in summer 2020. This vastly expands the Strasbourg-based river-cruise giant's oceangoing programs. La Belle des Océans will begin service with a 10-night itinerary between Singapore and Phuket, calling at Malaysia's Malacca, Port Klang (for Kuala Lumpur), Penang and Langkawi, and Thailand's Ko Muk, Ko Lanta and Phang Nga Bay. Ten departures are scheduled, from Oct. 17 to Dec. 28. In January, the ship will sail two 10-night cruises, to India and from Abu Dhabi to Oman. A nine-night cruise in February visits Jordan, Egypt, Israel and Cyprus. Weeklong cruises from Piraeus, Naples, Nice and Ajaccio follow, before La Belle des Océans sails from Lisbon to Madeira and the Azores in May 2020. The ship will then head via Saint Pierre et Miquelon to Québec. Ten-night cruises between the St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario will operate until October, with visits to Québec, Montréal, the Thousand Islands and Niagara-on-the-Lake. The 120-passenger La Belle des Océans will be CroisiEurope's second oceangoing vessel, along with La Belle de l’Adriatique.
Source: Seatrade Cruise News
Royal Caribbean Brings 300,000 Passengers to Malaysia
Royal Caribbean is expected to bring around 300,000 cruise passengers to Malaysian shores in 2019. The latest to make her maiden call at Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal, Pulau Penang Island (Georgetown, Malaysia) was Spectrum of the Seas that accommodates 5,622 passengers. Spectrum of the Seas saw 3 departures from Singapore – a 3-night voyage to Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang) on May 18, a 4-night journey to Penang on May 21, and a 9-night one-way trip from Singapore to Shanghai on May 25, visiting Ho Chi Minh City, Nha Trang, and Hong Kong on May 25. Spectrum of the Seas alone brought in more than 12,000 passengers to Malaysia on her 3 calls this year. The arrival of the ship marked the start of the line's Double Quantum year in the region that will also welcome sistership Quantum of the Seas that will bring 4,905 cruisers in November 2019. She will have a 6-month season with a total of 34 departures.
Source: Cruise Mapper
Québec cruise numbers reached new high in 2018
2018's cumulative 488,797 passenger days for the nine cruise ports belonging to Cruise the Saint Lawrence was 26% higher than in 2017 and a new record for the province. The 41 cruise ships that operated in the region spent 541 days in port. The 2019 season, which began recently, is set to become the longest since international cruise ships have been sailing the St. Lawrence, extending from an early spring stopover on April 28 in the Magdalen Islands to a late autumn call on Nov. 2 at Saguenay. As the season progresses, the region will welcome four new lines: TUI Cruises, MSC Cruises, Scenic Cruises and Peace Boat. Having established the region on the international cruise charts, Cruise the Saint Lawrence projects further growth considering the record orderbook and the diverse offerings of its member destinations. The association said it will continue to provide for sustained, soundly managed growth, while devising and executing a strategy intended to transform the St. Lawrence into a year‑round cruise destination, winter included. Cruise the Saint Lawrence is supported by partners Tourism Québec, Québec Tourism Industry Alliance and Industry, Science and Economic Development Canada.
Source: Seatrade Cruise News
The Canaveral Port Authority and Disney Cruise Line reached a new 20-year agreement to expand operations and make Port Canaveral home for two of Disney’s three new ships.
The new operating agreement will begin June 1 and replaces an existing marine terminal agreement set to expire Dec. 31, 2027. It provides a 20-year primary term with two additional five-year renewals. Initially, the call guarantee remains at 150 calls, but increases to 180 calls in 2023 and up to 216 calls in 2024 through the remainder of the 20-year term. The terms of the new agreement continue Disney’s exclusive operation from Cruise Terminal 8, in addition to providing preferential use of Cruise Terminal 10 for a third homeport vessel. The planned waterside and landside improvements to CT-8 and CT-10 will accommodate the growth of Disney’s fleet. The new ships are expected to be delivered in 2021, 2022 and 2023, with two of them homeporting in Port Canaveral for at least their first five years of operation. The approximately 140,000gt ships are LNG-powered. The agreement between Disney and the port continues a relationship that began with negotiations in 1994 to build the first Disney cruise terminal there. All four of Disney’s existing ships made Canaveral their homeport when they debuted. The two biggest ships, Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy, currently sail from Canaveral year-round while Disney Magic and Disney Wonder rotate homeports.
Source: The Maritime Executive
Royal Caribbean’s ‘Double Quantum Year’ in Asia
Royal Caribbean International is extending Quantum of the Seas' Singapore season through April 2021 and in doing so deepening Royal’s commitment to the region with capacity for an additional 180,000 passengers. The extra seven months of homeporting in Singapore, will make this the cruise line’s longest ever Singapore deployment for a Quantum class ship. The announcement, was the highlight of the maiden call celebration of Quantum Ultra ship Spectrum of the Seas. The ship returned to Singapore Tuesday following a three day cruise. Angie Stephen, Managing Director, Asia Pacific, Royal Caribbean Cruises, reiterated to SCN that the Asian cruise market has been maturing over the decade and continues to grow at record pace, with a rising number of experienced cruisers and first-timers who have greater product awareness and information. Newest and largest ship in Asia is scheduled to return in November 2019, and will first see 34 sailings during the six months from November 2019 to April 2020. Longest ever Singapore deployment with a total of 40 sailings over seven months till April 2021 - the cruise line's longest ever Singapore deployment for a Quantum Class ship. ‘Royal Caribbean has big ambitions for Asia – and Singapore sits at the heart of our growth in this region,’ he commented. Spectrum of the Seas kicks off her inaugural Singapore season this month, with three sailings of 3 to 9 nights to destinations such as Penang, Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang), Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My) and Hong Kong. She will be based in Shanghai from this June.
Source: Seatrade Cruise News
Experience truly elegant travel this summer on the American Duchess, an opulent paddlewheeler touring the Lower Mississippi’s living history.
June sailings between Memphis and New Orleans highlight the jewels of the South like no other tour with carefully crafted shore excursions in Helena, AR; Vicksburg, MS; Natchez, MS; Baton Rouge, LA and St. Francisville, LA. Below is a sampling of the diverse offerings on the nine day cruises.Historic Mansions: Pillow-Thompson House in Helena, the Anchuca Mansion in Vicksburg, Nottoway Plantation, the South’s largest, most glorious remaining antebellum mansion. Cultural Excursions: Natchez Association for the Preservation of Afro-American Culture Museum, the LSU Museum of Art, the Louisiana Old State Capitol. June Sailings Memphis to New Orleans: June 9 – 17 / June 23 – Jul 1. June Sailing New Orleans to Memphis: June 2 – 10 / June 16 – 24 / June 30 – July 8
Source: Late Cruise News
Cuba tallied 2018 cruise arrivals at about 800,000
Of the 4.75m international visitors to Cuba in 2018, approximately 800,000 arrived on ships belonging to 17 cruise lines, according to Cuba's Ministry of Tourism (MINTUR), as reported by John Kavulich, president of the New York-based US-Cuba Trade and Economic Council. That was up from 2017's 619,000 cruise travelers, of a total 4.5m visitor arrivals recorded by MINTUR, Kavulich said. MINTUR's cruise count for 2016 was 541,000. Kavulich noted these numbers compare to media reporting of 500,000 cruise travelers to Cuba in 2018 and 397,520 in 2017.
Source: Seatrade Cruise News
Royal Caribbean is expected to bring around 300,000 cruise passengers to Malaysian shores in 2019. The latest to make her maiden call at Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal, Pulau Penang Island (Georgetown, Malaysia) was Spectrum of the Seas that accommodates 5,622 passengers. Spectrum of the Seas saw 3 departures from Singapore – a 3-night voyage to Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang) on May 18, a 4-night journey to Penang on May 21, and a 9-night one-way trip from Singapore to Shanghai on May 25, visiting Ho Chi Minh City, Nha Trang, and Hong Kong on May 25. Spectrum of the Seas alone brought in more than 12,000 passengers to Malaysia on her 3 calls this year. The arrival of the ship marked the start of the line's Double Quantum year in the region that will also welcome sistership Quantum of the Seas that will bring 4,905 cruisers in November 2019. She will have a 6-month season with a total of 34 departures.
Source: Cruise Mapper
Québec cruise numbers reached new high in 2018
2018's cumulative 488,797 passenger days for the nine cruise ports belonging to Cruise the Saint Lawrence was 26% higher than in 2017 and a new record for the province. The 41 cruise ships that operated in the region spent 541 days in port. The 2019 season, which began recently, is set to become the longest since international cruise ships have been sailing the St. Lawrence, extending from an early spring stopover on April 28 in the Magdalen Islands to a late autumn call on Nov. 2 at Saguenay. As the season progresses, the region will welcome four new lines: TUI Cruises, MSC Cruises, Scenic Cruises and Peace Boat. Having established the region on the international cruise charts, Cruise the Saint Lawrence projects further growth considering the record orderbook and the diverse offerings of its member destinations. The association said it will continue to provide for sustained, soundly managed growth, while devising and executing a strategy intended to transform the St. Lawrence into a year‑round cruise destination, winter included. Cruise the Saint Lawrence is supported by partners Tourism Québec, Québec Tourism Industry Alliance and Industry, Science and Economic Development Canada.
Source: Seatrade Cruise News
The Canaveral Port Authority and Disney Cruise Line reached a new 20-year agreement to expand operations and make Port Canaveral home for two of Disney’s three new ships.
The new operating agreement will begin June 1 and replaces an existing marine terminal agreement set to expire Dec. 31, 2027. It provides a 20-year primary term with two additional five-year renewals. Initially, the call guarantee remains at 150 calls, but increases to 180 calls in 2023 and up to 216 calls in 2024 through the remainder of the 20-year term. The terms of the new agreement continue Disney’s exclusive operation from Cruise Terminal 8, in addition to providing preferential use of Cruise Terminal 10 for a third homeport vessel. The planned waterside and landside improvements to CT-8 and CT-10 will accommodate the growth of Disney’s fleet. The new ships are expected to be delivered in 2021, 2022 and 2023, with two of them homeporting in Port Canaveral for at least their first five years of operation. The approximately 140,000gt ships are LNG-powered. The agreement between Disney and the port continues a relationship that began with negotiations in 1994 to build the first Disney cruise terminal there. All four of Disney’s existing ships made Canaveral their homeport when they debuted. The two biggest ships, Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy, currently sail from Canaveral year-round while Disney Magic and Disney Wonder rotate homeports.
Source: The Maritime Executive
Royal Caribbean’s ‘Double Quantum Year’ in Asia
Royal Caribbean International is extending Quantum of the Seas' Singapore season through April 2021 and in doing so deepening Royal’s commitment to the region with capacity for an additional 180,000 passengers. The extra seven months of homeporting in Singapore, will make this the cruise line’s longest ever Singapore deployment for a Quantum class ship. The announcement, was the highlight of the maiden call celebration of Quantum Ultra ship Spectrum of the Seas. The ship returned to Singapore Tuesday following a three day cruise. Angie Stephen, Managing Director, Asia Pacific, Royal Caribbean Cruises, reiterated to SCN that the Asian cruise market has been maturing over the decade and continues to grow at record pace, with a rising number of experienced cruisers and first-timers who have greater product awareness and information. Newest and largest ship in Asia is scheduled to return in November 2019, and will first see 34 sailings during the six months from November 2019 to April 2020. Longest ever Singapore deployment with a total of 40 sailings over seven months till April 2021 - the cruise line's longest ever Singapore deployment for a Quantum Class ship. ‘Royal Caribbean has big ambitions for Asia – and Singapore sits at the heart of our growth in this region,’ he commented. Spectrum of the Seas kicks off her inaugural Singapore season this month, with three sailings of 3 to 9 nights to destinations such as Penang, Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang), Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My) and Hong Kong. She will be based in Shanghai from this June.
Source: Seatrade Cruise News
Experience truly elegant travel this summer on the American Duchess, an opulent paddlewheeler touring the Lower Mississippi’s living history.
June sailings between Memphis and New Orleans highlight the jewels of the South like no other tour with carefully crafted shore excursions in Helena, AR; Vicksburg, MS; Natchez, MS; Baton Rouge, LA and St. Francisville, LA. Below is a sampling of the diverse offerings on the nine day cruises.Historic Mansions: Pillow-Thompson House in Helena, the Anchuca Mansion in Vicksburg, Nottoway Plantation, the South’s largest, most glorious remaining antebellum mansion. Cultural Excursions: Natchez Association for the Preservation of Afro-American Culture Museum, the LSU Museum of Art, the Louisiana Old State Capitol. June Sailings Memphis to New Orleans: June 9 – 17 / June 23 – Jul 1. June Sailing New Orleans to Memphis: June 2 – 10 / June 16 – 24 / June 30 – July 8
Source: Late Cruise News
Cuba tallied 2018 cruise arrivals at about 800,000
Of the 4.75m international visitors to Cuba in 2018, approximately 800,000 arrived on ships belonging to 17 cruise lines, according to Cuba's Ministry of Tourism (MINTUR), as reported by John Kavulich, president of the New York-based US-Cuba Trade and Economic Council. That was up from 2017's 619,000 cruise travelers, of a total 4.5m visitor arrivals recorded by MINTUR, Kavulich said. MINTUR's cruise count for 2016 was 541,000. Kavulich noted these numbers compare to media reporting of 500,000 cruise travelers to Cuba in 2018 and 397,520 in 2017.
Source: Seatrade Cruise News
---------- WEEK 20 ----------
MS Westerdam to explore 8 Iconic Countries in Asia
The cosmopolitan cities and old traditions of the Far East unfold for passengers on Holland America’s ms Westerdam when the cruise ship embarks on her 2019-2020 season in Asia. Between September 2019-April 2020, ms Westerdam extensively explores Cambodia, Japan, China, the Philippines, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam, and Singapore, on itineraries ranging from 13 to 16 nights. Sailing from Yokohama (Tokyo) in Japan, Hong Kong and Shanghai in China, and Singapore, the contrasts between the modern and the ancient come to life as traditional cultures collide with bustling capitals and soaring skyscrapers. Nine different itineraries unveil the magic of the countries and celebrate the histories and modern cultures which have been thousands of years in the making.
Source: Cruise Mapper
Carnival Dream on Monday embarked its first voyage from new home Port of Galveston, expanding short cruise offerings from the Texas city.
Carnival Dream became the newest Carnival Cruise Line ship to operate a program of short sailings from Galveston. It will sail four- and five-day cruises year-round. 'Carnival Cruise Line was the first cruise line to call Galveston its home. Since 2000, we have enjoyed our relationship with Carnival and look forward to many more years together,' said Rodger Rees, CEO and port director. Carnival Dream is scheduled for 50 departures in the 2019 season. These sailings include four-day weekend cruises sailing Thursdays to Cozumel, while five-day voyages on Mondays and Saturdays to Cozumel and Progreso or Costa Maya. Carnival Dream joins Carnival Vista, which repositioned to Galveston last year, and Carnival Freedom. Vista and Freedom sail week long cruises. Together the three ships are expected to carry nearly 650,000 passengers annually from Galveston, the most of any cruise line.
Source: Seatrade Cruise News
Taiwan Tourism to launch online destination campaign in India market starting July 2019
Taiwan Tourism Bureau (TTB) will be shifting gears as far as their destination promotion and marketing campaigns in India to more online channels now from outdoors campaigns which they have been doing since they have announced their ambitious ‘2 20:20’ strategy. MakeMyTrip to launch the online campaign and hopeful of starting the campaign starting from July. In a market like India where the destination awareness is low and people generally search destinations on online channels, it is important to have targeted campaigns on online distribution channels to generate awareness as well convert that into actual visitations. Taiwan has one of the easiest visa systems which goes a long way in prospective travellers decision-making discretion. Travellers who have a valid US, Schenegen, Japan, Australian, Korean Visa, are eligible for a free e-Visa in Taiwan. There have been encouraging growth of 41% in visitor arrivals from India in February this year, compared to the same month last year. Since festivals are a major draw with Indian travellers, Taiwan Tourism will also launch campaigns around key festivals like Food and Hot Spring Festival as well this year. Approximately 40% of the Indian visitations are for business. Taiwan provide direct incentives/subsidies for Incentive groups. The strategy behind the 2 20:20, is to lure 2% of the hi-end leisure traffic from India to Taiwan to attain 20% growth in Indian inbound to Taiwan by 2020. The Indian share in the total inbound of Taiwan is too small (40,000 in 2018), it is one of the fastest growing market (9.8% in 2018). Taiwan has increased their marketing budget for India from USD 1,02 million to USD 2.0 million in 2019.
Source: TravelBiz Monitor
Kenya to become Cruise Hub with New TerminalKenya is currently eyeing to become the 2nd major destination for cruise liners in Africa after Egypt following the search for new deals during the cruising conference held recently in Miami FL, USA. The authorities expect the cruise business to take off from November 2019 when the building of the terminal to receive the cruise ships is completed. The building of the Sh350 million world-class terminal at the port, that was initially set to be finished in 2017, pushed to 2018 and then to November 2019, is 40% complete. The country has been wooing the California-based operator of luxury ships, Princess Cruises, to make Mombasa a homeport for its ships in a move which could boost the arrival of holidaymakers from the U.S. A home port status will imply that for every cruise, Princess Cruises ships will visit Kenya not only to offload and pick the majority of the passengers but to restock fuel and supplies.
Source: Cruise Mapper
Tourism officials in Fort-de-France have made their downtown beach even more appealing.Passengers arriving in 2019 will find new beach chairs and umbrellas awaiting them, just feet from their ship at Pointe Simon. New electric tour carts can zip passengers to and from the Aimé Césaire Museum Space, and new open-roof tour busses take them to beyond-the-beach culinary and cultural activities. New umbrellas might not seem like a big deal, but Martinique is pushing to improve on an already well-polished product. In June, the port received ISO 9001 certification, a rigorous test for ensuring customers’ needs are properly taken into account and that organizations can meet them in an appropriate and consistent way. The challenges remain the same, said Jacques Bajal, manager of cruise, yachting and water sports for the Martinique Port Authority. “Exceeding passenger experiences, give more experience choices, unite all local forces to cater to passengers’ needs,” he said. “Same challenge for years: Keep increasing passengers’ satisfaction and win cruise lines’ loyalty.” Bajal predicts a slight dip in 2019, with 344,224 transit passengers arriving and roughly 120,000 homeporting, for a total of 464,224. Last year the port handled 527,081 passengers, 392,837 in transit and 134,244 homeporting.
Source: Cruise Industry News
Port of Kiel welcomes the “AIDAprima” to the Ostseekai for its maiden call
Maiden call of the cruise ship “AIDAprima” at the port of Kiel. Coming from Dubai, the vessel concluded its transfer voyage and berthed at the Ostseekai Terminal in the early Friday morning, 17 May. At the on-board reception, the PORT OF KIEL’s Managing Director, Dr. Dirk Claus, welcomed the President of AIDA Cruises, Felix Eichhorn, as well as Captain Marc-Dominique Tidow in Kiel and presented them with the official plaque for the vessel’s inaugural call. Following tradition, the vessel’s first departure from Kiel was accompanied by the water fountains of a harbour tug. AIDA Cruises and the PORT OF KIEL are connected by a long-time and trustful partnership. The first vessel of the AIDA fleet, which is called „AIDAcara“ by now, visited the capital city of Schleswig-Holstein on its very first voyage on 8th June 1996. Since then, AIDA has been a reliable economic factor for the touristic sector and the maritime industry of the region. Next to the economic importance of the partnership between Kiel and AIDA Cruises, the two players have a strong emotional bond. In April 2007, it was the “AIDAdiva” which inaugurated the Ostseekai Cruise Terminal. The ship’s christening of the “AIDAsol” on 9th April 2011 is also unforgettable. More than 45,000 citizens and guests of the city celebrated the eighth AIDA vessel. Next year again, four different AIDA vessels will pay their visits to the port of Kiel.
Source: Late Cruise News
Reconfiguring the City of Ketchikan’s downtown cruise dock to accommodate larger ships will cost an estimated $95 million, not including design costs and uplands infrastructure work.
Add in those other costs, and the city is facing a bill of up to $150 million. But, improvements aren’t optional if Ketchikan wants to remain a premier cruise destination. The Ketchikan City Council will talk about whether to move forward with a private-public partnership to help pay for that work. City Manager Karl Amylon writes in a memo to the council that the current fleet of ships visiting Alaska will slowly be replaced by new vessels that exceed 1,000 feet in length. Ketchikan’s port isn’t set up to accommodate more than one of those longer ships at a time. Norwegian Cruise Lines invested in Hoonah’s facilities at Icy Strait Point; Carnival invested in Skagway through its purchase of the White Pass Railway; and the Port of Seattle is currently considering bids from private industry to invest in a new cruise terminal. The council will vote on a motion to start that process. Also, the council will vote in first reading on an ordinance to sell the vacant Main Street fire hall by auction, with a minimum bid of $335,750. In other matters, the council will vote in first reading on an ordinance to place a measure on the October ballot asking voters whether the city should prohibit on-site marijuana consumption at licensed businesses.
Source: KRBD
Norwegian Joy became the largest cruise ship to sail into Icy Strait Point, Alaska.
A striking destination in the Tlingit village of Hoonah, Icy Strait offers a Native-owned and operated experience featuring more than 20 excursions, including whale-watching, a zip line and ATV and Jeep expeditions. Built around a restored 1912 Alaska salmon cannery, Icy Strait Point gives visitors easy access to stunning Alaska wilderness and wildlife as well as Native Tlingit hospitality. Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings has partnered with Alaska Native-owned Huna Totem Corp. to develop a second cruise pier in Icy Strait Point. It is scheduled to be completed for the 2020 Alaska season and will be built to accommodate Norwegian Cruise Line’s Breakaway Plus ships. The partnership will provide Norwegian and sister brands Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises with preferential berthing rights and allow the company to increase its calls there. During 2019, in addition to Norwegian Joy, NCLH ships scheduled to visit are Norwegian Jewel, Regatta and Seven Seas Mariner.
Source: Seatrade Cruise News
The Government of Cayman Islands has received a formal financial commitment from the MSC Cruises company to provide funding toward the costs of building the cruise berthing facility, Premier Hon.
Alden McLaughlin unveiled. MSC Cruises is the 4th cruise line to financially commit to the berthing project, along with Carnival, Disney, and Royal Caribbean. The Premier affirmed that having 4 cruise companies signed on to the berthing project provided "tremendous benefit to the Cayman Islands." The Cayman Islands' Cruise Berthing Facility Project is already in its 6th year and underwent a rigorous procurement process in order to identify a preferred bidder to build the berthing facility within a design, finance, maintain, and build framework. The Cayman Islands' Port Authority will continue to own, manage, and operate the facility.
Source: Cruise Mapper
Portland welcomed the first major cruise ship of the 2019 season Thursday.
The Norwegian Dawn brought 2,224 passengers and 1,000 crew members into port. Two other large ships expected this month – Grandeur of the Seas on Sunday and the Norwegian Dawn again on May 23 – are among the 100 cruise ships expected to call on Portland this season. Last year, 120 ships visited the city. City officials said while the number of ships is down this year compared to last, it expects larger vessels with more passengers. The city also intends to continue operating the Waterfront Marketplace where local street vendors and artists can set up their displays between Ocean Gateway and the Portland Ocean Terminal on days when cruise ships with 1,000 or more passengers are expected.
Source: Press Herald
Korea Hoping to Build Cruise Market
“We are accommodating overseas cruise companies in Korea, so we are trying to make our destinations unique and attractive,” said Kim Hyunsung, Senior Deputy Director of Korea’s Marine Leisure Tourism Division. In total, the country has six main ports of call, including Yeosu, Sokcho, Busan and Jeju. Two years ago, Korea joined the Asia Cruise Cooperation (ACC) with the goal of increasing the number of ships visiting the country and developing the Korean national cruise market. Hyunsung would also like to see Korea as a key outbound market, with homeport operations sending cruise ships to other countries. Currently, no cruise line is serving the local market but there are tour operators chartering ships for local operations, he said. According to Hyunsung, Korea had 22,000 outbound passengers on ships in 2018. He said that plans are underway for a domestic cruise line. We are trying to building our own cruise ships,” he added. A new airport and port recently opened in Incheon, helping position it as a key hub for future cruise calls.
Source: Cruise Industry News
Yas Island launches Travel Content Awards program
Yas Island, has launched the first-ever Yas Island Travel Content Awards at an exclusive Iftar event at Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi. The awards program will celebrate storytelling published by journalists and content creators while conveying Yas Island’s appreciation of their willingness to advocate for its award-winning portfolio of attractions. The inaugural Yas Island Travel Content Awards will recognise work in five categories including the Best Trade Journalism Award, Best Yas Short Break Feature, Best Yas Family Vacation Feature, Best Yas Single Attraction Feature and Best Yas Digital Content Creator. Writers and content creators will be able to submit their own work or be nominated through destination partners. The winners will be celebrated in April 2020. The 25 kilometer square leisure & entertainment hub delivers exceptional holiday breaks to UAE residents and tourists alike all year round. The Island’s portfolio of award-winning attractions features thrilling indoor and outdoor theme parks, a world-class motor sports facility, which is also home to the Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, and Abu Dhabi’s largest shopping destination, as well as a world-class Links golf course, a sprawling pristine beach and more than 160 restaurants. Additionally nestled on the Island are seven hotels ranging from affordable 3-star comfort to sophisticated 5-star luxury stays. All this is complemented by Yas Island’s extensive events calendar that continues to grow and diversify to include entertainment for all ages.
Source: Travel Biz Monitor
Stockholm gets €176m boost from cruise tourism
According to the survey, almost all passengers were prepared to recommend Stockholm to their friends as a cruise destination. Stockholm’s tourism trade is on the up, driven by the cruise industry, according to an independent survey conducted during 2018 by GP Wild. The survey was also carried out in around 20 other port cities. ‘This survey demonstrates that the cruise industry contributes a great amount to our region, with a total economic effect of €176 million and 1,100 jobs. It shows Stockholm is a popular cruise destination and that most cruise passengers are very satisfied with their visit,’ said Fredrik Lindstål, chair of the board at Ports of Stockholm. Some 623,000 cruise passengers and 240,000 crew members arrived in Stockholm in 2018, spending €57m during their stay. In addition, the cruise lines spent a total of €25m on harbour dues, pilotage dues and fairway dues, raising the total spending to €82m. The report showed passengers from Germany, the US and UK made up the majority of visitors, with 57 the typical age and most passengers travelling with one companion. Three out of four passengers visiting Stockholm said they were extremely or very satisfied with their visit in comparison to their expectations. Almost all were prepared to recommend Stockholm to their friends as a cruise destination. Figures showed that day passengers spent an average of €72 per person and turnaround passengers spent an average of €256 per person, whilst crew members going ashore spent an average of €48 per person.
Source: Seatrade Cruise News
An awesome things to do in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin IslandsOne of the most visited cruise ports in the Caribbean is St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands. The island is conveniently found in the Lesser Antilles near the British Virgin Islands. It’s a perfect destination for cruise itineraries for all the major cruise lines. In addition to being simply stunning, it’s best known for being a favorite duty-free shopping place in the region, just one of many things to do in St. Thomas! St. Thomas mixes the laid-back vibe of the Caribbean with the modernities of a metropolitan society to create a modern paradise. All this evidenced by the constant calls cruise lines such as Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, Princess Cruises, and Holland America make to this destination. Being a US territory, you can expect the best security, convenience in ease of transaction, communication, and movement. With all these amenities and supporting features, one would have to try hard not to have a good time here. The following 15 awesome things to do in St. Thomas:
1. Explore town of Charlotte Amalie, the Capital city of St. Thomas - about 10 minutes from the Havensight cruise terminal. You’ll need good travel walking shoes when exploring this cruise destination. Marvel at the genius of ancient civilizations as displayed in the intricate designs and structures created by them.
2. Duty-Free Shopping Enjoy the best duty-free shopping that the Caribbean has to offer. Splurge a little on some retail therapy in this island and save yourself the extra bucks.
3. Visit the National Heritage Sites The historic district has over 500 ancient buildings.
4. Explore Underwater St. Thomas is strategically located between the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. Its tropical climate provides the best environment for fish and sea creatures to live in. When in St. Thomas, make sure to visit Coral World Ocean Park.
5. Drake’s Seat Enjoy panoramic views of the island and its surrounding neighbors on some of its high points. To start with, there is Drake’s seat, which has a complete overview of Magen’s Bay. It’s a beautiful place to stop by, enjoy the view, rest a bit and take great photos before continuing your tour of the area.
6. Mountain Top Found 1500 feet above sea level, this is one of the highest points on the island. It affords you an advantageous view of the bay and several other islands.
7. 99 Steps! To enjoy the beauty and architecture of this island climb the 99 steps up government hill that lead to Blackbeard’s castle.
8. Paradise Point Not for those who fear heights. The sky ride will elevate you 700 feet above the water as you cross the bay from Havensight to Charlotte Amalie. The 7-minute ride is the best way to see all of St. Thomas and the bay beneath dotted with numerous boats and yachts.
9. Beach This island has plenty of beaches, and you would have to visit the island for a more extended period to experience them all. Among the four best is Magen’s Bay beach, Sapphire Beach, Lindquist Beach, and Coki beach.
10. Tour to Nearby Islands Visit the nearby inhabited water island and enjoy its perfect beaches or visit the natural parks in St. John.
11. Taste of St. Thomas Enjoy Mediterranean and Caribbean menu, try out delicious cuisines such as callaloo, pate (a St. Thomas version of empanadas), and the funjee (a favorite side dish made from salted cornmeal).
12. Experience Winter in the Sun at Magic Ice Opened in January 2012, Magic Ice is the world’s largest permanent ice gallery.
13. Escape to Secret Harbour, a remote and unknown to many, is a breathtaking wide swath of soft white sand, shady palm trees, and turquoise blue water. But the main draw is the calm, clear waters that make snorkeling here, a pure joy.
14. Pirates Treasure Museum Just a short distance from the cruise pier is one of the unique and impressive museum that displays great pirate exhibits.
15. Plantation Crown and Hawk Botanical Garden Go on an off-the-beaten-path adventure filled with many exotic plants and flowers, animals such as peacocks, turtles, macaws, iguanas, and plenty of bird and fish life. The gardens themselves are set in an 18th-century sugar plantation with a few ruins visible here and there.
Source: Cruise Hive
Ferry Link to be established between Hungary and SlovakiaA ferry link is planned to be established under a European Union-funded project in order to serve as a new border crossing between Slovakia and Hungary within a couple of years, ministry officials of the 2 countries announced in Dunaradvany (Radvan nad Dunajom) on Thursday, May 16. The ferry serving cars, bicycles, and pedestrians, will connect Neszmely, Hungary and Dunaradvany, Slovakia. It will be used by 600 cars per day. The project includes building road connections, ferry buildings, parking places, and ramps on both sides. The Hungarian foreign ministry’s deputy state secretary, Peter Kiss-Parciu, told a press conference that the governments of the two countries had agreed back in 2014 to increase the border crossing points' number. Currently, there are 33 crossing points along the 677-kilometre border with 6 new points planned by 2022, he added. The cross-border project is expected to cost EUR 1.8 billion euros, 85% of which will be financed with EU funds. The rest will be co-funded from Slovak and Hungarian central coffers.
Source: Cruise Mapper
---------- WEEK 19 ----------
China’s southern province of Hainan was approved by the Ministry of Transport (MOT) to launch pilot cruises to nowhere for Chinese-funded cruise ships flying flags of convenience.
The first two pilot ports in Hainan are Sanya and Haikou. This initiative is to encourage cruise ship operators to design and provide diversified cruise offerings and further promote Hainan's cruise tourism development. Chinese-funded cruise operators' owned or bareboat-chartered foreign-flag cruise ships are eligible. MOT defines a 'Chinese-funded cruise operator' as a business entity with no less than 51% Chinese invested capital, running international cruises on ships built less than 30 years ago. To apply for approval of cruises to nowhere, the operator must submit the voyage proposal two months ahead of schedule. The MOT Hainan Department will be responsible for reviewing the proposal and related arrangements.
Source: Seatrade Cruise News
Mumbai Port plays host to Spectrum of the Seas
Mumbai Port on Thursday, 9th of May, hosted around 5,700 guests from 71 nations, who arrived on Spectrum of he Seas, the largest and most advanced cruise ship to port in India. Royal Caribbean International’s newest ship has 16 decks and weighs 1,68,666 gross tonnes. To celebrate the maiden call, plaque exchanges were conducted between Spectrum of the Seas’ Captain Charles Teige and State Tourism Minister Jaykumar Rawal, Mumbai Port Trust chairman Sanjay Bhatia, and Keki Master, senior vice-president of shipping services company J.M. Baxi. Next halt: Kochi
Source: The Hindu
Key West's Mallory Square Port Reopens
Five months after Silversea's cruise ship Silver Spirit crashed into a mooring in high winds, the Key West pier reopened this week. The Mallory Square cruise ship port was restored, with the first vessel pulling in on May 5. Only 5 ships were canceled, while 15 were relocated to the other piers. On November 27, 2018, upon leaving call port Key West FL, due to heavy winds, Silversea's Silver Spirit collided with The Fisherman Wharf (at Mallory Square). The ship departed the berth at ~6:30 pm and started to turn around when strong winds stopped it and pushed it back towards the dock. The crash resulted in minor hull damages and no injuries, but the structure sustained damage that left the cruise berth unusable. The accident occurred during the 5-day Caribbean cruise (itinerary Nov 23-28) from San Juan (Puerto Rico) to Fort Lauderdale, visiting Samana (Dominican Republic) and Key West FL. Silversea will pay not only for the repairs, estimated at between US$500,000-$750,000 but will also have to reimburse the port city for passenger fees lost during the 5-month-long restoration period, which could be another US$50,000.
Source: Cruise Mapper
19 key sailing regions around the world - Largest Luxury Brands by Regional Deployment
For 2019, these companies are the largest operator by region when it comes to the luxury cruise market, according to the 2019 Luxury Market Report by Cruise Industry News:
- Caribbean: Viking Ocean
- Mediterranean: Viking Ocean
- Asia-Pacific: Silversea
- Northern Europe: Viking Ocean
- Alaska: Regent
- Australia: Viking Ocean
- West Coast: Crystal
- South America: Silversea
- Canary Islands: Hapag-Lloyd
- Indian Ocean/Red Sea/Middle East: Seabourn
- Bermuda: Regent
- Trans-Atlantic: Viking Ocean
- Canada/New England: Seabourn
- Hawaii: Crystal
- Africa: Ponant
- Panama Canal: Windstar
- U.S. Domestic Waterways (Great Lakes): Ponant
- Antarctica: Ponant
- World Cruises: Viking Ocean
Marseille welcomes world’s first LNG cruise ship, AIDAnova, with official plaque presentation
On Thursday, May 9, 2019, Captain Boris Becker welcomed numerous representatives from politics, port-related businesses and tourism aboard AIDAnova in Marseille for the traditional plaque exchange for the world’s first LNG cruise ship at a French port. AIDAnova is the world’s first cruise ship that, thanks to dual-fuel engines on board, can be operated both in port and at sea with low-emission liquefied natural gas (LNG). Emissions of particulate matter and sulfur oxides are eliminated almost completely, while nitrogen oxides and carbon dioxide emissions are sustainably reduced. AIDA Cruises will be commissioning two more ships of this LNG generation in 2021 and 2023. Until the beginning of November 2019 AIDAnova will be sailing seven-day cruises, calling at some of the Germans’ most popular travel destinations in the Mediterranean – Civitavecchia (Rome), La Spezia (Florence), Marseille and Barcelona. The Spanish port town is not only the second changeover port on these cruises: AIDAnova will also be re-fueled regularly with low-emission LNG in Barcelona.
Source: Late Cruise News
WelcomHeritage Group records 35:65 as the Foreign: Indian guest ratio approximately
We aim to expand our horizon in South & North-eastern region of the country as these properties will help the brand expand its footprints all across India. There is a lot more to be explored. Jammu & Kashmir is not just scenic beauty but the culture and heritage of that city is an experience on its own” said Sanjeev Nayar, General Manager, Kalyan Bhawan Hotel, Jaisalmer. Presently WelcomHeritage has a portfolio of 37 exclusive properties spread over in 14 states and 34 cities. “WelcomHeritage”, is the largest Heritage Hotels and Resorts Chain, in the country/region.WelcomHeritage is a joint venture between ITC Hotels and Jodhana Heritage Limited, a company owned by H.H Maharaja Gaj Singh Ji, of Marwar, Jodhpur, in Rajasthan.
“Unique Experience”. India is a vast country with diverse culture and traditions. Each destination of ours offers something different from the other and endeavours to showcase the rich cultural and traditional brilliance of the region, thus promising you an experience that is as diverse as India. “Each of our Hotels offers a unique experience, a secret to share and a story to tell.” WelcomHeritage has a bouquet of properties. Its properties are spread across length & breath of India making them season specific. While the hill properties do extremely well in the summers, the properties in the plains do well in the winters. We have had a fairly decent percentage of foreign tourists at our properties. However, we are also witnessing growth within Indian travellers, as they are getting keener on travelling to offbeat destinations and also knowing about our history and culture. The current ratio of Foreign: Indian guest is 35:65 approximately. Another interesting thing which has been noticed by us in our hotels was the trend of family holidays, reunion etc. besides the conventional MICE and inbound segment.
Source: Travel Biz Monitor
Ports in Spain Enjoy Rise in Cruise Passenger Numbers
Spanish ports enjoyed a 9.66% increase in the total number of cruise passengers last year and the figure reached 10.18 million, the country's Ministry of Public Works and Transport announced. The cruise industry employs around 31,200 people in Spain and it generated EUR 1.48 billion in revenue, according to the ministry. More than 3.0 million cruise passengers used a port in Spain on a turnaround, while 90.8% of all passengers used ports on the coast of the Mediterranean or the Canary islands. The ministry said the data placed some Spanish ports, like the Balearic Islands or Barcelona, as leaders of European rankings. They even "hold strong positions in the global context... and make Spain the second most visited country in the European continent." The Mediterranean ports Almería, Alicante, Barcelona, Balearic Islands, Castellon, Cartagena, Ceuta, Melilla, Malaga, Motril, Tarragona, Valencia, concentrated the bulk of passengers (67.7% - 6,888,298 passengers). This is the area that grew the most (11.35%) and where the major ports in the country are situated, Barcelona with over 3 million cruise passengers, the Balearic Islands with 2.4 million. 2019 began with promising figures for ports in Spain since the 579,572 cruise passengers counted in January entailed an increase of 8.7% in comparison with the same month in 2018.
Source: Cruise Mapper
Mumbai-headquartered Guideline Travels looks to add to its list of channel sales partners sells B2B and B2C tour packages, is looking to add to its list of channel sales partners
It currently has 11 such partners pan India. Pradeep Saboo, Partner, Guideline Travels LLP, says, “Most people don’t know this but we are more than cruises. We have been selling Europe for more than 15 years and US for more than nine years. In fact, we bring out our own brochure with global itineraries like Europe, US, Australia, and New Zealand. For B2B, I only sell group tours and not FIT tailor-made packages. We currently have 11 channel partners, apart from our own four offices, in cities like Hyderabad, Chennai and even Raipur and are looking to add more in various cities. We train these agents in Mumbai and give them 25 of our brochures.” He adds that the packages are completely inclusive and they have a policy of no optional sightseeing on tour. All meals, tips, insurance are included as well. Moreover, all meals are vegetarian/Jain, except the breakfast which is at the hotel. But this has not stopped non-vegetarian clients because of its all-inclusive deal. While it also sells to agents outside of its 11 channel partners, the commissions differ, giving more advantage to the partners. There is no joining fee for agents who are free to conduct their regular business except group tours. Saboo adds, “We need active agents. They don’t need to be exclusive with us, except when it comes to package tours, which needs to be done only with us. We offer them continuous guidance and their clients can call us directly for clarifications. Moreover, we don’t require a minimum guarantee.”
Source: Tourism Breaking News
---------- WEEK 18 ----------
A newly equipped co-branded terminal and a dedicated berth at the Port of Kiel
As MSC Meraviglia marked her maiden call to Kiel, senior leaders of MSC Cruises and the port gathered to renew their long-term partnership and agreed to ramp up the company’s homeporting operations. MSC Meraviglia’s maiden call marks the start of a regular cruise schedule with turnaround operations in Kiel, where the ship is homeporting until September.
On a bi-weekly basis, MSC Meraviglia sails on two routes to the Norwegian Fjords via Copenhagen and Stavanger, and to St. Petersburg via Copenhagen, Helsinki and Tallinn. As the main cruise line user of Berth No. 1 – Ostuferhafen, MSC Cruises has customized the branding of both the terminal and the associated luggage area. A second gangway specifically for MSC Cruises is due to be developed in due course, helping ensure smooth turnaround operations.
To further reinforce their partnership, Pierfrancesco Vago, MSC Cruises executive chairman, and Dirk Claus, managing director and CEO of Port of Kiel, signed a letter of intent laying out the brand’s future growth from the port. MSC Cruises will deploy two ships in Kiel from 2020 onwards, becoming the port’s leading cruise line customer and enabling its growth across Northern Europe and the Baltic. Vago said: ‘This newly equipped, co-branded terminal and dedicated berth will enable us to achieve dramatic growth out of Kiel, which will become one of our key homeports in Northern Europe. We will consolidate our position as the cruise line with the second largest capacity deployed in Germany and Northern Europe while also becoming the number one cruise line in Kiel. We look forward to a bright common future.’ Sustainable development is a joint area of focus and, as part of the LOI, the Port of Kiel and MSC Cruises have agreed to analyse options to equip the dedicated berth with shore-to-ship power. MSC Meraviglia is ready to receive power from local grids at berth. MSC Meraviglia is due to reposition to North America and the Caribbean in September, where she will spend the upcoming winter season.
Source: Seatrade Cruise News
Hurtigruten's Fram opens earliest cruise season at Port of Québec
The expedition vessel is the first of its kind to call at the port and it launched the earliest cruise season there. 'The Port of Québec is thrilled to welcome so many new cruise lines this summer, starting as early as May 2nd with the MS Fram,' Québec Port Authority President and CEO Mario Girard said. 'Hurtigruten is a pioneer expedition ship company paving the way for an evolving cruise industry. Their vision is aligned with the strong commitment of the Port of Québec in sustainability and we are fortunate that they chose Québec city as their turnaround port.' $193m in annual cruise spending. In 2019, nine ships will make inaugural calls. Besides Fram, they are Ponant’s Le Champlain, TUI Cruises’ Mein Schiff 1, MSC Meraviglia, Peace Boat’s Ocean Dream, Viking Sun, Scenic Eclipse, Oceania Cruises’ Riviera and Holland America Line’s Zaandam. Several of these lines are newcomers to the port. This season will see record deployment from Holland America Line, Princess Cruises and Cunard, including numerous overnights in Québec. Holland America has the longest and most extensive cruise season in Québec with 34 calls from May through October. Princess will offer six 10-day sailings and one 13-day repositioning cruise on its newly refurbished Caribbean Princess, with overnight stays on every sailing. Princess will also make its first summer call in Québec, departing on Aug. 9. Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 is offering an extended Canada deployment, with five overnight calls between summer and fall. Québec City has seen record-breaking growth year-over-year. In 2018 the port welcomed 230,940 cruisers, a nearly 15% increase over the 200,000 in 2017. Committed to continuing to growth, with the goal of welcoming 400,000 cruisers by 2025, the port has announced the investment in a second cruise terminal at Berth 30, located in front of the UNESCO World Heritage panorama of Old Québec.
Source: Seatrade Cruise News
The Ministry of Tourism has said that cruise liner Silver Shadow brought 363 tourists to Port of Khasab recently.
Specialists in the Department of Tourism in Musandam in cooperation with competent authorities received tourists and provided them with guides. Meanwhile, Oman’s ports received 298 cruise ships in 2018-19. This is an increase of 106 over tourist ships which arrived in 2017-18. The number of cruise ships that arrived at Port Sultan Qaboos was 147, while Khasab port received 72 and Salalah port 79. The number of tourists who came onboard cruise ships in 2018 was 193,467. The number is expected to reach 220,000.
Source: Muscat Daily
UK's Portland Port welcomes Zenith and Crown Princess inaugural calls
Pullmantur Cruises’ Zenith made an inaugural visit to UK south coast port of Portland on Monday, then sailing on to Cherbourg, Dover and Ijmuiden before scheduled arrival at Malmö, Sweden, May 4. Another new visitor today saw 3,080-passenger Crown Princess make an inaugural call. It is also the first Princess Cruises ship to visit Portland. Sea Princess and Pacific Princess will also make inaugural calls later in the season, whilst Crown Princess returns on September 24. Portland Port is expecting another record-breaking cruise season, a pattern repeated often in the last 10 years with numbers increasing from four calls in 2008 to the 44 that are expected this year. Visiting nationalities to Portland Port regularly include Germans with increasing numbers of Swiss, Italians and Spaniards this year. To greet international guests Portland Port has stationed a multilingual Welcome Team on the quayside, offering maps and local knowledge. Ian McQuade, general manager commercial for the port said, ‘We recognise the importance of giving a warm welcome in the appropriate language to our cruise visitors and our multi-lingual Welcome Team really help us deliver on this’. The port ran a complimentary shuttle bus service into Weymouth with optional shore excursions to Portland Castle, and access to local transport around the island. Prior to the vessel’s departure passengers were treated to entertainment from Weymouth Concert Brass Band followed by a customary three shot salute by Nothe Fort Artillery Volunteers on disembarkation.
Source: Seatrade Cruise News
Emaar and P&O Marinas start Dh25bn Dubai coastal project
Dubai's largest listed developer Emaar Properties and DP World’s P&O Marinas are starting a Dh25 billion coastal project that will transform the emirate’s historic port area. The project, dubbed Mina Rashid, will be a riviera-style coastal destination by the Dubai Creek, Emaar Properties said in a statement on Thursday. The project will feature Dubai Mall by the Sea, a floating yacht club, Dubai's longest swimming pool and waterfront homes. The Mina Rashid project will feature 430 wet berths to accommodate large yachts and attract cruise-ship tourists, hotels, a private beach club, a pedestrian harbour bridge and a beach the size of two and a half football fields, Emaar said. "Mina Rashid will strengthen Dubai’s position as a global city and the premier cruise hub in the Middle East," Sultan bin Sulayem, chairman of DP World, said. "Our venture with Emaar will contribute to the city’s cruise tourism and create another strong economic catalyst.” Mina Rashid will be home to the Queen Elizabeth II, that has been converted into a 13-deck floating hotel, with an exhibition and theatre. The new destination will have midrise waterfront homes with promenades, Venetian piazza, retail and restaurants by the sea, hotels, interconnected parks a 500-meter canal, art galleries, theatre and museum. As part of Mina Rashid, Emaar announced the Sirdhana project comprising one, two and three-bedroom waterfront apartments and townhouses. The residential collection is named after the British Royal Mail Ship, the first vessel to dock at Mina Rashid. Sirdhana will be located near the QE2, a community park and ‘The Dubai Mall by the Sea.’ The apartments, with views of Downtown Dubai and the waterfront, will feature amenities including a recreation room, community podium with a gym, children’s play area and recreational courts. The Dh25bn project, located near Bur Dubai, is 15 minutes from the Dubai International Airport and will offer direct link to House of Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum. Emaar did not say when work on the project will be completed or set a delivery date. The historic Mina Rashid was the first modern port in Dubai, opened in 1972, and turning the tiny trading village into a major port of call between East and West.
Source: The National
South Korea’s largest cruise ship terminal opened on April 26 in Songdo, an international business district in Incheon, west of Seoul.
Since 2013, Incheon Port Authority has spent 28 billion won (US$24 million) to build the 2-story terminal with a total of 7,364 m2 (79,265 ft2) of floor space. On the same day, the 2,800-passenger Costa Serena left the port for the Japanese city of Fukuoka on a 6-day itinerary that ends in Busan. Six different organizations signed an agreement to cooperate on promotion of cruise tourism: Incheon Port Authority, the local governments of Yeonsu district and Incheon city, Korea Tourism Organization, Incheon Tourism Organization, Lotte Tour Development. The new cruise terminal in Incheon is the biggest in the nation as well as the first of its kind close to the capital.
Source: CruiseMapper
Perfect Day at CocoCay
Yields for Royal Caribbean cruises that include Perfect Day at CocoCay pre-booked experiences are up double-digits versus the same sailings a year ago, Richard Fain said, calling the development a 'game-changer' for the industry. The official opening isn't for a few weeks, but attractions have been rolling out and Chairman/CEO Fain said the feedback has been 'exceptional.' One of those early visitors was analyst Steven Wieczynski of Stifel, who during Wednesday's earnings call asked about the potential for overcrowding now that CocoCay has a pier able to berth two large ships.
Perfect Day was designed for 4,000 to 6,000 people on the island and is engineered for peak demand of close to 10,000, according to Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International.
Three-ship days under study The company has been looking at the potential for three-ship calls, Bayley said, which could take the numbers up to 12,000 people a day. It's a 'pretty large island' and only one-third is developed, he added. The Caribbean comprises more than half of Royal Caribbean's capacity this year, and Liberty said new ships and Perfect Day are 'clearly fueling additional and high-level demand.' CocoCay's new pier began taking ships in March.
Perfect Day attractions scheduled to be available in May include Thrill Waterpark, the over-water zip line, Splashaway Bay aqua park, Up, Up and Away helium balloon, Captain Jill’s Galleon, Skipper’s Grill dining, Captain Jack’s dining, Chill Island, Chill Grill dining and Oasis Lagoon freshwater pool. The elements scheduled to be open by December include South Beach, Coco Beach Club and the overwater cabanas.
There is no extra charge for experiences like Oasis Lagoon, the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean; the shipwrecked Captain Jill’s Galleon, with its slides and water cannons; Royal Caribbean's biggest Splashaway Bay and the new sports courts on South Beach. Dramatically enhanced beaches like Chill Island and South Beach provide free beach chairs and beachside activities. Five new complimentary dining venues are located throughout the island. Examples of activities that carry a charge, which varies by season, include Thrill Waterpark, with 13 waterslides and a wave pool. Full-day access costs $44 to $99; half-day access (afternoon only) is $39 to $74. There's no charge for children up to age 3. The zipline fee ranges from $79 to $139.
Combination packages for Thrill Waterpark and zip line range from $99 to $179 for a full day and from $89 to $149 for a half day. Admission to the exclusive Coco Beach Club with its clubhouse and infinity pool, costs $54 to $99 for ages 13 and older and $34 to $69 for ages 4 to 12. There's no charge for children 3 and younger.
Source: Seatrade Cruise News
Antarctica tour operators introduce new measures to manage for tourism growth
The International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) has closed its annual meeting in Cape Town with multiple new measures in support of its mission for safe, environmentally responsible Antarctic travel. IAATO has been carefully monitoring, analysing and reporting Antarctic tourism trends since 1991 as part of its commitment to ‘leave only footprints’ through the effective self-management of guest activities. The measures given the green-light at the organization’s 2019 annual meeting in Cape Town, South Africa, aim to support the effective management of the growing number of visitors to the white continent. 56,168 people travelled with IAATO members in 2018/2019, via both deep field and cruise expeditions, including 10,889 visitors who travelled on cruise-only vessels and did not set foot on the continent. The actions agreed include a unanimous vote to impose mandatory measures to prevent whale strikes in cetacean-rich Antarctic waters, more stringent restrictions on the commercial use of remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS), robust adjustments to visitor guidelines for activities on the Antarctic peninsula and approval to expand research into the health of penguin populations at visitor sites. IAATO and its counterpart in the northern hemisphere, the Association for Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators, introduced guidelines that will arm visitors to the polar regions with responsible solutions for reducing their waste and plastic footprint. Mark van der Hulst, incoming chair of the IAATO Executive Committee, said: “Antarctica receives relatively few visitors compared to other destinations, but its unique qualities require rigorous safeguards. IAATO’s success in responsibly managing its activities relies on the willingness of its members to act for Antarctica and, once again, members have demonstrated their commitment by making critical decisions at the 2019 meeting.”
Source: IAATO
---------- WEEK 17 ----------
Visit Game of Thrones locations on a Variety Cruises mega yacht
As Game of Thrones (GOT) airs its final season, it’s a great time for fans to visit the film locations! Variety Cruises, an award-winning boutique small ship cruise line offers GOT devotees a unique way to explore Croatia, Iceland and Spain on three different cruise itineraries. Fans can board a Variety Cruises' Mega Yacht and sail to some of the most iconic GOT locations including Dubrovnik, Croatia; Reykjavik, Iceland or Seville, Spain. Variety Cruises allows guests to explore the true identity of a destination while enjoying the personal attention of its crew (with almost a 2/1 passenger/crew ratio). Guests will indeed feel like a King or Queen of the Seven Kingdoms.
Variety Cruises combines amazing destinations used in Game of Thrones on a mega yacht with a professional crew and exquisite cuisine always with a local flavor. The perfect ingredients to the ultimate yacht cruise experience.
Source: Variety Cruises press release
Spanish ports enjoyed 9.7% rise in cruise passenger numbers 2018
Ports in Spain enjoyed a 9.66% increase in the number of cruise passengers in 2018 and the total figure reached 10.18 million, the Ministry of Public Works and Transport said in a statement. The cruise industry employs about 31,200 people in the country and it generated €1.48 billion in revenue, the ministry said.
Source: Cruise Business
It is an exciting time to visit Ecuador’s Galapagos Islands aboard a small ship
The non-profit Charles Darwin Foundation is celebrating its 60th year with symposiums and events, and overall attention to sustainable travel and wildlife conservation has never been stronger. “With 2019 being the Darwin Foundation’s 60th anniversary the islands are abuzz as a previously thought-to-be-extinct Fernandina tortoise just found on the island in February made global news,” notes Todd Smith, founder and president of AdventureSmith Explorations. The Galapagos Islands boast some of the highest levels of endemism (species uniquely defined by geographic location) compared with anywhere else on the planet. About 80% of the land birds you will see, 97% of the reptiles and land mammals, and more than 30% of the plants are endemic. More than 20% of the marine species in Galapagos are found nowhere else on earth.
Small ship cruise passengers’ favorites include the giant Galapagos tortoise, marine and land iguana, flightless cormorant, the colorful Sally Lightfoot crab and the Galapagos penguin — the only penguin species to be found in the Northern Hemisphere. AdventureSmith offers a helpful blog that speaks to future visitors with a list of must-see, fanciful wildlife species. The company also reports that an impressive number of the ships they work with are taking conservation-minded actions towards a healthy Galapagos. To further support and protect the fragile environment, AdventureSmith Explorations offers the added bonus of Carbon-Free Cruising, the small ship cruise industry’s first carbon offset program that comes at no added cost to travelers. Plus, AdventureSmith takes Galapagos conservation a step further by giving its travelers an easy choice to support the Galapagos Traveler Conservation Fund through an optional donation when booking and paying for their trip.
Source: AdventureSmith Explorations
Port of Wellington Expects Another Record-Breaking Cruise Season
As the last cruise ship of Wellington port's record-breaking season docks in the capital, 2020 numbers are expected to rise higher. Over 220,000 cruise passengers from 110 vessels poured into the region during 2018-2019 cruise season, worth an estimated US$56 million to the economy. The first ship of the season to arrive was also the last to call, with an Easter Monday berthing of Radiance of the Seas drawing the cruise season to a close. Over 120 ships are scheduled to visit for the next season that starts in October. The record-breaking cruise season was predicted in 2018 with an extra 50,000 cruise passengers due to arrive in the port city, beating the previous record of 90 ship calls set in 2012-2013. Mid-January was the busiest of the season, with ten ships visiting in a single week, pouring 17,500 passengers into the port.
Source: CruiseMapper
Westerdam and Costa neoRomantica Make Double Call to Vladivostok
Vladivostok continued its biggest and significant cruise season ever with a historic double call of two cruise ships as the Westerdam and Costa neoRomantica called simultaneously on April 22. It was the first call to the Russian port for the Westerdam. Passengers and crew of Westerdam and Costa neoRomantica were greeted with traditional welcome ceremonies, organized for each of cruise ship after docking at Vladivostok Sea Terminal with the support of tour operators and marine agent. Drums, vocal and dance collectives of the Far Eastern State Technical Fisheries University presented a huge artistic program with great Russian hospitality. During organized shore excursions in Vladivostok, passengers visited traditional tourist objects such as Central Square, Embankment, Orthodox churches, museums, traveled by train on the Trans-Siberian Railway. Some tourists visited Russian families, where they felt national traditions closer. In a statement, the port said it had spent considerable time and effort to accommodate two ships, with work dating back to 2018 including both technical and organizational measures, and changes in the regulatory framework governing accommodating and clearance of foreign ships.
Later this year, the Spectrum of the Seas and Quantum of the Seas are planned to make their maiden calls in September.
The port is also doing more turnarounds. On May 30, the Costa NeoRomantica will homeport for a cruise visiting Korean and Japanese ports.
On Sept. 9, the new Spectrum of the Seas sails from Vladivostok to Shanghai visiting Maizuru (Kyoto) and Fukuoka.
Source: Cruise Industry News
Scattered Islands, sentinels of climate change, under scrutiny
On April 4, the Marion Dufresne, a TAAF supply ship, left Reunion for a one-month mission to the Scattered Islands with 75 scientists from some 15 French and international research organizations on board. The ship is scheduled to stop over for four days in Europa, Juan de Nova and Les Glorieuses, then three days in Tromelin before returning to Reunion Island on April 30. In addition to the research programs, four programs related more specifically to environmental management and preservation are also on board the vessel. Thanks to the support of the European Union and the French Coral Reef Initiative (IFRECOR), the stations of the International Coral Reef Monitoring Network (GCRMN) in the scattered islands will be visited and the external slopes associated with these reefs will be explored for the first time at a depth of over 30m. This work will make it possible, among other things, to finalize the precise assessment of the state of the reefs and to compare it with other territories, in particular with those of the Pacific (New Caledonia, Polynesia...) and the Atlantic (Martinique, Guadeloupe...). The Scattered Islands, like the Southern Islands, because of their specific characteristics - isolation, high biological diversity and habitats protected from human impacts - constitute unique advanced stations in the Indian Ocean for studying climate change and its impacts on environments and biodiversity.
Source: Clicanoo
Take a pre-cruise vacation and ‘live like a local’ on Florida’s Space Coast
Located on Florida’s Space Coast, bustling Port Canaveral is one of the largest and busiest cruise ports in the U.S. As the home port to some of the most-innovative players in the cruise world, there’s a good chance that your next cruise might depart from this vibrant east coast venue. With so much to see and do on the Space Coast, many cruise passengers extend their vacation by a day or two in this fun-filled port city, so they can settle in before their departure and bypass any last-minute travel challenges. It’s called taking a “pre-cruise,” and it’s a perfect way to immerse yourself into the rhythm of your vacation and ensure you’re well-rested and prepared for your cruise adventure. To truly experience and get an intimate feel for the special way of life on the Space Coast during your pre-cruise, you’ll need to explore the area like a local, starting with these five must-do activities:
- Treetop Trek
- Duran Golf Club
- Riverfront Park
- Ossorio Bakery & Cafe
- Superb Fishing
Take an extra day or two and make it even more special by exploring the Space Coast. You deserve it.
Source: Modern Diplomacy
Port of Cardiff Gets Ready for 2019 Cruise Season
The Port of Cardiff is getting ready for a busy cruise season which commences with the visit of Cruise and Maritime Voyages' Marco Polo on Monday, April 22, the Associated British Ports (ABP) announced. From May through June 2019, three visits and more than 2000 cruise passengers are due to utilising port facilities and services offered by ABP South Wales at the port. The Port of Cardiff already boasts a number of bookings for cruise visits during 2020 season, where travellers will either see Wales as part of the itineraries or embark on cruises from the port. ABP South Wales provides bespoke quayside facilities to visiting cruise ships. Its 3 cruise ports, of Cardiff, Newport, and Swansea, are ideally situated with quick connections to M4 motorway.
Source: CruiseMapper
Source: Modern Diplomacy
Port of Cardiff Gets Ready for 2019 Cruise Season
The Port of Cardiff is getting ready for a busy cruise season which commences with the visit of Cruise and Maritime Voyages' Marco Polo on Monday, April 22, the Associated British Ports (ABP) announced. From May through June 2019, three visits and more than 2000 cruise passengers are due to utilising port facilities and services offered by ABP South Wales at the port. The Port of Cardiff already boasts a number of bookings for cruise visits during 2020 season, where travellers will either see Wales as part of the itineraries or embark on cruises from the port. ABP South Wales provides bespoke quayside facilities to visiting cruise ships. Its 3 cruise ports, of Cardiff, Newport, and Swansea, are ideally situated with quick connections to M4 motorway.
Source: CruiseMapper
---------- WEEK 16 ----------
Britain draws 1.64m cruise visitors in 11th consecutive record year
The number of cruise passengers visiting Britain continued to rise for an 11th consecutive year, according to figures recently released by Cruise Britain. Over the course of this period, passenger day calls have risen by a factor of 4.5 to reach 1.642m, including an increase of 16% over 2017.
68 ports get cruise calls Cruise passengers arrived through 68 cruise ports, from Kirkwall in the north to Jersey in the English Channel, and stepped ashore for day visits from 139 ships, with many ships making multiple return calls. The number of cruise lines received reached 56 with ships visiting UK ports including Portland and Poole, Fishguard and Fowey, Tower Bridge (London) and Tyne. The short sailing distances between Britain's shores and adjoining countries allow for a rich cultural and historical mixed itinerary for visitors.
‘Reaching the 1.642m mark shows the increasing popularity of Britain as a cruise destination. Significant growth can be seen for ports right across the UK, from Dover to Orkney and Holyhead to London. It’s four years since we broke the million mark and to sail past the 1.5 million milestone so quickly is a remarkable growth trajectory and one we are doing everything to support, especially in this, our 10th year,' said James Stangroom, chair of Cruise Britain.
A significant number of the UK’s ports handle both day calls and embarkations, which increases the opportunity to grow the nation’s cruise business,’ Stangroom added. ‘As the global cruise market continues its growth trend, we are confident that Britain's appeal as a cruise destination will continue.’
Source: Seatrade Cruise
Brisbane Breaks Ground on New Cruise Ship Terminal
Brisbane has launched the construction of the new International Cruise Terminal, heralding the start of a new era for Queensland’s economy. The AUD 158 million (USD 112.9 milion) project, which would be capable of welcoming bigger ships, is scheduled to open in October next year. It has the potential to more than double Brisbane’s cruise industry. It will cater for the largest cruise ships in the world supercharging the growth in our tourism industry. Within its first five years the terminal is expected to handle over 1,100 vessel calls and around 1.8 million passengers. Over 180 bookings have already been confirmed for the 2020/21 cruising season. Wharf construction will be undertaken by Brady Marine & Civil, a specialist marine infrastructure and engineering contractor headquartered in Brisbane, while civil works and terminal building will be delivered by Hindmarsh, an Australian construction company.
Source: World Maritime News
The 5 Best Port Cities on the Gold Coast
To begin, it must be said that there are two different ways to talk about the Gold Coast. Gold Coast is a city on the Eastern coast of Australia, marking the divide between the states of Queensland and New South Wales. However, the city is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with approximately 57 kilometers of gorgeous coastline. This coastline is colloquially known as “The Gold Coast,” though it is made up of many smaller cities, towns, and individual beaches. Gold Coast is an amazing port city in itself, with exciting nightlife, friendly locals, and scenery that you can’t find anywhere else in the world. But what about some of the other cities that occupy this beautiful coastline? Let’s take a look at 5 of the best port cities on the Gold Coast!
Kingscliff A small port city that sits on the southern tip of the Gold Coast in New South Wales. It offers a variety of water-based activities for tourists, including swimming, water sports, and fishing. The town center offers a variety of restaurants, cafes, and retail shopping as well. With a population of less than 8,000, Kingscliff is a cozy little get away.
Tweed Heads North of Kingscliff Tweed Heads - a more spacious metropolitan city at the mouth of the Tweed River. In addition to its beautiful coast and beach resort vibes, Tweed Heads is home to numerous national parks that host unique, subtropical flora and fauna. For those who prefer something a little more adventurous, the Mount Warning, the largest shield volcano in the southern hemisphere!
Burleigh Heads Though it’s technically a suburb of the Gold Coast, Burleigh Heads makes up one of the most beautiful sections of coastline, thanks in large part to the Burleigh Heads National Park. Though very small, the park is home to a wide variety of plant and animal life. It’s ideal for surfing or is a more relaxed atmosphere is preferred, the Burleigh Heads is also great for shopping, dining, or taking a break on the beach.
Paradise Point As its name implies, Paradise Point is a great place to drop anchor and just soak in the beauty. With a coastline that is protected by South Stradbroke Island, this little community is a symbol of tranquility. A calm waterfront picnic, or heading across the bridge to the Sovereign Islands, allow to see some of the most beautiful homes in the region.
South Stradbroke Island Affectionately known as “South Straddie,” South Stradbroke Island is actually located in Moreton Bay, northwest of Gold Coast proper. The island is probably most well-known for its population of wallabies that have grown accustomed to (and even fond of) humans. Though the island consists mostly of sand dunes, rainforests, and wetlands, there is always an influx of tourists during the holiday season.
Source: PortholeCRUISE
Something for Everyone at Tortola Pier Park
When it comes to the islands which dot the Caribbean Sea, few come close to the stunning history, unique culture and vibrant atmosphere found on the British Virgin Islands. Specifically the island of Tortola, the largest and most exciting in the BVI, where cruise ship passengers disembark for a day full of fun adventures, fabulous shopping and plenty of local cuisine.
Tortola Pier Park is the island’s premier shopping and dining destination complete with a variety of restaurants and goods from locally-caught Caribbean fusion seafood eateries to family-friendly cuisines for all ages. If you’re looking to see something new, try something delicious and experience the best high end shopping the Caribbean has to offer, Tortola Pier Park needs to be at the top of your list. There’s truly something for everyone!
Tortola has so much more to offer than just pretty scenery. When disembark the cruise ship and make their way into Tortola Pier Park, cruisers can find vibrant island culture all around. Wine tastings, movie nights, health and wellness expos and what has to be the best Christmas sales event in all of the Caribbean. Events like the Jazz & Style Festival can’t be found on any other island in the Caribbean and are a highlight of any Tortola vacation. No matter what age or what you like, Tortola Pier Park treats you to a great experience each and every time. Island tours, zip-lining, snorkeling and more can all be arranged from various vendors and event coordinators within the park.
When it comes to the best shopping and outlet deals in the Caribbean, Tortola Pier Park can’t be topped. From high end jewelry and fashion like Diamonds International, Effy, and the House of Luxury to the I Love Tortola gift shop. The selection offers clothing, jewelry and other goods from some of the favorite luxury brands as well as local island goods that can’t be found anywhere else. A Locally Yours gives an authentic taste of the British Virgin Islands including rum cakes, hot sauces, honey, fruit liqueurs and more.
Tortola Pier Park has one of the best selections of restaurants and eateries on the island all in one place. Whether a fresh Caribbean seafood and a glass of wine at Seven at the Pier Restaurant, a casual bite at Mac’s Restaurant, wraps and sandwiches to take to the beach or a tropical cocktail on a warm afternoon, Tortola Pier Park has it all.
The British Virgin Islands are some of the most unique in the world and Tortola stands out as the largest and most fun-filled of them all. Tortola Pier Park is a vacation paradise with something for everyone.
Source: PortholeCRUISE
Cruise tourism on rise in Oman
The Ministry of Tourism in Oman is making efforts to attract tourist cruise ships to visit Oman. Cruise ships visiting Oman’s port during the year 2018-2019 has reached to 298, showing an increase of 106 compared to the year 2017-2018. While the number of cruise ships that arrived at Sultan Qaboos Port was 147 ships, it was 72 at Khasab port and 79 at Salalah port.
It is expected that in 2019-2020, the number of cruise ships visiting Oman would reach to 360.
The number of tourists who came on cruise ships in 2018 was 193,467. It is expected to reach to 220,000 in 2019. Tourists who come mostly during the month of October to April, come to revel in Oman’s natural beauty and to soak up its culture and heritage.
The Ministry of Tourism organises several entertainment activities for the tourists arriving on board in cooperation with the local agents. The Ministry also opens up its traditional souqs for the guests so that they can have a first-hand experience of Omani traditions and its traditional industry. Rowas bin Hafiz Al Rowas, Assistant Director General for Tourism Development and Investor Services, said that the cruise ships visiting Salalah port this year is expected to see a huge increase as a result of the efforts of the Ministry of Tourism along with Salalah Port and other organisations, tourist companies and cruise agents. Al Rowas said that the cruise ship sector benefits from the tourism sector along with the local community. There is a considerable increase in their visits during winter season as they mostly dock at the Salalah port. These ships add value to the economy of the Sultanate in general and to the Dhofar governorate as well. He said that at the beginning of the tourist season, a meeting with the Salalah Port Authority is held in the presence of the officials, tourism companies and shipping agents to discuss their preparations. They also discuss the challenges and the means to face them as well as the facilities which could be provided at the preferred destinations during winters.
Source: Times of Oman
The 5 Best Port Cities on the Gold Coast
To begin, it must be said that there are two different ways to talk about the Gold Coast. Gold Coast is a city on the Eastern coast of Australia, marking the divide between the states of Queensland and New South Wales. However, the city is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with approximately 57 kilometers of gorgeous coastline. This coastline is colloquially known as “The Gold Coast,” though it is made up of many smaller cities, towns, and individual beaches. Gold Coast is an amazing port city in itself, with exciting nightlife, friendly locals, and scenery that you can’t find anywhere else in the world. But what about some of the other cities that occupy this beautiful coastline? Let’s take a look at 5 of the best port cities on the Gold Coast!
Kingscliff A small port city that sits on the southern tip of the Gold Coast in New South Wales. It offers a variety of water-based activities for tourists, including swimming, water sports, and fishing. The town center offers a variety of restaurants, cafes, and retail shopping as well. With a population of less than 8,000, Kingscliff is a cozy little get away.
Tweed Heads North of Kingscliff Tweed Heads - a more spacious metropolitan city at the mouth of the Tweed River. In addition to its beautiful coast and beach resort vibes, Tweed Heads is home to numerous national parks that host unique, subtropical flora and fauna. For those who prefer something a little more adventurous, the Mount Warning, the largest shield volcano in the southern hemisphere!
Burleigh Heads Though it’s technically a suburb of the Gold Coast, Burleigh Heads makes up one of the most beautiful sections of coastline, thanks in large part to the Burleigh Heads National Park. Though very small, the park is home to a wide variety of plant and animal life. It’s ideal for surfing or is a more relaxed atmosphere is preferred, the Burleigh Heads is also great for shopping, dining, or taking a break on the beach.
Paradise Point As its name implies, Paradise Point is a great place to drop anchor and just soak in the beauty. With a coastline that is protected by South Stradbroke Island, this little community is a symbol of tranquility. A calm waterfront picnic, or heading across the bridge to the Sovereign Islands, allow to see some of the most beautiful homes in the region.
South Stradbroke Island Affectionately known as “South Straddie,” South Stradbroke Island is actually located in Moreton Bay, northwest of Gold Coast proper. The island is probably most well-known for its population of wallabies that have grown accustomed to (and even fond of) humans. Though the island consists mostly of sand dunes, rainforests, and wetlands, there is always an influx of tourists during the holiday season.
Source: PortholeCRUISE
Something for Everyone at Tortola Pier Park
When it comes to the islands which dot the Caribbean Sea, few come close to the stunning history, unique culture and vibrant atmosphere found on the British Virgin Islands. Specifically the island of Tortola, the largest and most exciting in the BVI, where cruise ship passengers disembark for a day full of fun adventures, fabulous shopping and plenty of local cuisine.
Tortola Pier Park is the island’s premier shopping and dining destination complete with a variety of restaurants and goods from locally-caught Caribbean fusion seafood eateries to family-friendly cuisines for all ages. If you’re looking to see something new, try something delicious and experience the best high end shopping the Caribbean has to offer, Tortola Pier Park needs to be at the top of your list. There’s truly something for everyone!
Tortola has so much more to offer than just pretty scenery. When disembark the cruise ship and make their way into Tortola Pier Park, cruisers can find vibrant island culture all around. Wine tastings, movie nights, health and wellness expos and what has to be the best Christmas sales event in all of the Caribbean. Events like the Jazz & Style Festival can’t be found on any other island in the Caribbean and are a highlight of any Tortola vacation. No matter what age or what you like, Tortola Pier Park treats you to a great experience each and every time. Island tours, zip-lining, snorkeling and more can all be arranged from various vendors and event coordinators within the park.
When it comes to the best shopping and outlet deals in the Caribbean, Tortola Pier Park can’t be topped. From high end jewelry and fashion like Diamonds International, Effy, and the House of Luxury to the I Love Tortola gift shop. The selection offers clothing, jewelry and other goods from some of the favorite luxury brands as well as local island goods that can’t be found anywhere else. A Locally Yours gives an authentic taste of the British Virgin Islands including rum cakes, hot sauces, honey, fruit liqueurs and more.
Tortola Pier Park has one of the best selections of restaurants and eateries on the island all in one place. Whether a fresh Caribbean seafood and a glass of wine at Seven at the Pier Restaurant, a casual bite at Mac’s Restaurant, wraps and sandwiches to take to the beach or a tropical cocktail on a warm afternoon, Tortola Pier Park has it all.
The British Virgin Islands are some of the most unique in the world and Tortola stands out as the largest and most fun-filled of them all. Tortola Pier Park is a vacation paradise with something for everyone.
Source: PortholeCRUISE
Cruise tourism on rise in Oman
The Ministry of Tourism in Oman is making efforts to attract tourist cruise ships to visit Oman. Cruise ships visiting Oman’s port during the year 2018-2019 has reached to 298, showing an increase of 106 compared to the year 2017-2018. While the number of cruise ships that arrived at Sultan Qaboos Port was 147 ships, it was 72 at Khasab port and 79 at Salalah port.
It is expected that in 2019-2020, the number of cruise ships visiting Oman would reach to 360.
The number of tourists who came on cruise ships in 2018 was 193,467. It is expected to reach to 220,000 in 2019. Tourists who come mostly during the month of October to April, come to revel in Oman’s natural beauty and to soak up its culture and heritage.
The Ministry of Tourism organises several entertainment activities for the tourists arriving on board in cooperation with the local agents. The Ministry also opens up its traditional souqs for the guests so that they can have a first-hand experience of Omani traditions and its traditional industry. Rowas bin Hafiz Al Rowas, Assistant Director General for Tourism Development and Investor Services, said that the cruise ships visiting Salalah port this year is expected to see a huge increase as a result of the efforts of the Ministry of Tourism along with Salalah Port and other organisations, tourist companies and cruise agents. Al Rowas said that the cruise ship sector benefits from the tourism sector along with the local community. There is a considerable increase in their visits during winter season as they mostly dock at the Salalah port. These ships add value to the economy of the Sultanate in general and to the Dhofar governorate as well. He said that at the beginning of the tourist season, a meeting with the Salalah Port Authority is held in the presence of the officials, tourism companies and shipping agents to discuss their preparations. They also discuss the challenges and the means to face them as well as the facilities which could be provided at the preferred destinations during winters.
Source: Times of Oman
---------- WEEK 15 ----------
A Momentous Start For Portland Port’s 2019 Cruise Season
The first visit of 2019 was the inaugural call of the panamax size ship Costa Mediterranea. This ship is a spirit-class cruise ship operated by the Costa Crociere cruise line. The Costa Mediterranea can carry a total of 2,680 passengers, has 1056 cabins and a crew capacity of 902 in 509 crew staterooms.
Source: Cybercruises
Cruises are becoming more and more successful in the Indian Ocean; Tanzania wants to benefit from it too
The Tanzanian government has just announced the construction of a cruise terminal in the port of Dar es Salaam. The port has recently been visited by the Silver Whisper, which is beginning to sail in the Indian Ocean. It is a liner in the “ultra-luxury” category, much more expensive than the Costa or MSC. But the port of Dar es Salaam is not ultra-luxury. It’s the permanent rush in a persistent fishy smell. Hence the idea of creating a specially dedicated quay, which would be a gateway to safari, Kilimanjaro or beach excursions.
Source: crfimmadagascar.org
Gwadar means “Air Passage or Gateway” in the local language, it is the most important city under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)
It is natural deep sea-port, with its strategic location. It situated only 120 KM from the Iranian border, and 170 KM from Chahbahar port in Iran, opposite of Oman in the Arabian Sea. It is just at the entrance of Straight of Hurmuz. One of the busiest trade route – Oil and Gas rich Middle-East exporting Energy to rest of world and importing almost everything from the rest of the world through this route. Although the history of Gwadar goes back to the Bronze Age, its importance was highlighted after the launch of CPEC. Prime Minister Imran Khan, has visited Gwadar and a big momentum of developments of Gwadar is visible. He has attended the Ground Breaking Ceremony of Gwadar New International Airport. The Airport is a gift from the Chinese Government and will be constructed by the Chinese company within 5 years. It will be state of the art International airport and one of the most modern and largest airports in this whole region. Up to Airbus 380 will be able to land in this airport. It will facilitate to connect the whole world to Gwadar. It is really a major breakthrough for the development Gwadar into a major city of the world in the future. Gwadar will be hub of commercial activities and will change the global trade routes and trends. It will guarantee the prosperity of central Asia, South Asia, Eurasia, Middle-east and Africa. Gwadar is a message of “Peace, Harmony, Stability, Development and Prosperity”.
Source: Modern Diplomacy
Asia Cruise Cooperation Welcomes Growth and Expansion in 2019
Cruise tourism in Asia has been identified as one of the fastest-growing sectors in tourism development, the ACC said, with the number of cruise passengers increasing by an estimated annual average of 33%, from 775 000 in 2012 to nearly 4.26 million in 2018.
Source: Cruise Industry News
Oman's National Ferries Company (NFC) has transported more than 7,000 passengers onboard its ships throughout the Isra Wa Miraj holiday
The company announced that NFC transported a total of 7,638 passengers and shipped 1,596 vehicles during the week which included the Isra Wal Miraj holiday. During that time, the ferry company completed 87 trips to various destinations. The data showed that passengers were transported through the Shinas-Masirah line amounting to a 62 per cent increase. The National Ferries Company also revealed that during the first three months of this year, the company managed to transport 60,486 passengers, ship 1,560 vehicles and ship 3,118 tons of cargo.
Source: Times of Oman
Twenty-five tons of garbage, including about 50,000 sandals, were collected during a five-week cleanup on Aldabra Atoll, Seychelles
Aldabra, one of the world's largest atolls, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Seychelles, a group of islands in the Western Indian Ocean. The atoll, located 1,000 km from Mahé, the main island, is composed of four main islands of coral limestone separated by narrow passages and surrounding a large shallow lagoon. Five volunteers from Oxford University and seven from Seychelles joined the Seychelles Islands Foundation (SIF) team in Aldabra for the cleaning project to clean the island of man-made waste, while quantifying the amount and types of plastic and finding a sustainable way to treat them. The co-leader of the initiative, Jeremy Raguain, a SIF officer, told SNA that the cleanup took place in three phases. "In the first phase, we concentrated on collecting the maximum amount of waste , conducting surveys on the composition and weight of waste at the end of each session. During the second phase, we had to transport all the waste collected to various locations along the coastline, accessible to small boats. That meant carrying bags weighing up to 15 kg and harnesses weighing up to 60 kg"he said. In the third phase, everything was on deck, the entire SIF team in Aldabra , coast guards and volunteers had to move hundreds of jute bags from the beaches. The bags were placed on the SIF boats that carried the garbage on the Spirit of Ton Joe ship. Despite the difficulties, the volunteers had found time to dive, see turtles and sharks, and admire nature. incredible of Aldabra.
Source: Seychelles News Agency
---------- WEEK 14 ----------
Norway is anticipating yet another bumper year for cruise ships and passengers
Cruise Norway’s 40 plus ports are expecting to receive 2,365 calls in total and 3.9m day visitors along the full length of the coastline. These numbers represent a 10.7% year-on-year rise in calls and a 14% hike in passengers, In 2018, 2,135 calls and 3.4m day cruise visitors to Norway were recorded.
Bergen in top spot
Bergen remains the top cruise port welcoming 336 ships and 597,217 cruise guests last year. Ship visits will be similar in 2019 and passengers projected to increase 4% to 620,893. Bergen is set to handle 34 turnarounds this year, one of four Norwegian ports, along with Trondheim (7), Oslo (5) and Tromso (5).
Stavanger year-round calls
Second most popular cruise destination, Stavanger is expecting 242 calls and 506,825 passengers in 2019, a year in which it becomes a year-round cruise destination with ship visits every month. The season started on January 15 with a call by Viking Sky and finishes on December 6 with P&O Cruises’ Arcadia. Stavanger has calls booked in every month of 2020 too.
Geiranger with 226 calls and 390,000 passengers, followed by Alesund with 181 calls and 361,141 visitors, and Flam, with 272,786 passengers due to arrive on 165 ships are predicted as the next three busiest ports this year.
Oslo expecting 16% hike in guests
Norway’s capital is undergoing a renaissance as a cruise destination working towards a return to its peak of 2011 when 312,000 passengers visited the city. In 2019, Oslo is expecting a 16% jump in passengers to 218,000 arriving on 127 ships, up from 98 in 2018.
Source: Seatrade Cruise News
Dover Cruise Port taking a stand on ocean plastic – quite literally
Dover Cruise Port will be exhibiting at next week’s Seatrade Cruise Global in Miami running from April 8-11 with a stand made entirely from waste plastic that was collected from the world’s oceans and beaches during 2018. From the frame, the walls and furniture to soft furnishing and flooring, the whole stand is made from recycled plastic and it will all be recycled again into another stand at the end of its life.
Ecobooth accredited zero waste
Sonia Limbrick, Head of Cruise at Dover Cruise Port, said: ‘We’re taking a stand on ocean plastic – quite literally. Produced from renewable power, our ‘ecobooth’ (Stand 1123) is accredited zero waste, a great message for those cruise lines looking to have the least impact on the planet while having the most impact on growing their business.’ The Port of Dover has its own dedicated environmental team working within the port and with users to improve the sustainability of its operations. In 2017, it introduced the SEA (Safety Environment Awareness) Award, initiated in order to encourage other users of the Port, specifically visiting cruise vessels, to follow the correct procedures and maximise their recycling. Following this initiative, the percentage of recycling for cruise ship waste increased substantially from 23% to 40% in just one year. Cruise traffic at UK Port of Dover has increased 30% in the last three years and is set for further growth with the opening of a new 300mtr long (plus dolphin making it 350mtr) multipurpose quay this year as part of the Western Docks Revival development project.
Source: Seatrade Cruise News
The southern Chinese city Wenzhou is to have three homeport cruises by Costa Atlantica this year, starting April 12. It is the largest cruise ship to call at Wenzhou
Wenzhou International Cruise Port launched trial operation in December 2017 and commenced official operation in August 2018. Currently, the port has one cruise berth that can accommodate ships up to 100,000gt, with a designed annual passenger handling capacity of 220,000 people.
East China ports
Currently, there are two cruise ports in Zhejiang province, including Wenzhou International Cruise Port and Zhoushan Archipelago International Cruise Port. Wenzhou, close to Shanghai, aims to develop itself to be a major cruise port in the East China region as part of its short-term development plan.
Source: Seatrade Cruise News
Brazil market continues on an upward trajectory
MSC Poesia departed Salvador, Brazil, Thursday at the end of the southern hemisphere summer season when the country posted a 15% passenger spike. The MSC Cruises ship is the penultimate of seven vessels that spent the season operating in Brazil and Argentina. According to the latest (provisional) statistics from CLIA Brasil, this season posted 496,800, passengers, 15% more than 2017/18 when 496,800 passengers cruised on three lines.
Eight ships in 2019/20
And next year a similar increase is anticipated as an eighth vessel – the 2,400-berth MSC Symphony - will be added to the roster, bringing MSC up to five vessels, while Costa Cruises will continue with two and Pullmantur Cruises will remain with one (chartered by tour operator CVC). Despite this short term recovery, the Brazilian market is still a long way behind its peak of 805,000 passengers back in 2011/12.
Bigger ships, longer season
CLIA Brasil president Marco Ferraz says that the increase in numbers for the 2018-19 season was due to bigger ships being deployed (5,300-passenger MSC Seaview replaced MSC Preziosa) and also a longer season: it started in mid-November and will finish when the MSC Orchestra departs Salvador on April 11. This vessel has been deployed on the River Plate itinerary so is currently sailing from Buenos Aires and due to arrive in Rio de Janeiro on April 8 before calling Salvador and then crossing the Atlantic via Santa Cruz de Tenerife, in the Canary Islands. ‘We have had close to 100% occupancy for the whole season,’ Ferraz told Seatrade. ‘Owing to the economic crisis we had and then three years ago we had the impeachment of President Dilma our passenger numbers plummeted but since vice president Michel Temer took over as president, and then Jair Messias Bolsonaro since January, things have improved dramatically.’
2% GDP growth expected
After a long recession Brazil returned to growth last year, with 1%, and this year we are expecting 2% gdp growth, he added. The 2019/20 season will again start in late November and end in mid-April and Costa Cruises’ Costa Favolosa and Costa Fascinosa, will stay into April this time as well as two MSC ships. MSC Symphony will homeport out of Itajai, in the south of Brazil the first time in five years that it has welcomed cruise ships - offering cruises both to the north(to Rio and Santos) and also to the south (Buenos Aires and Uruguay). ‘We are very excited about bringing Itajai back into the fold,’ enthused Ferraz. ‘And we have also seen a number of improvements in infrastructure which is also helping with the increased numbers.’
Source: Seatrade Cruise News
---------- WEEK 13 ----------
Fredericia is ready for a record breaking 2019 cruise season with ten of its 20 total visits being maiden calls. This year P&O Cruises, Phoenix Reisen, Hapag-Lloyd, Marella Cruises and Disney Cruise Line will call. The season commences in April and closes with Arcadia calling December 24. In total, over 24,000 guests and more than 10,000 crew members will arrive in the city.
Disney Magic coming to Fredericia- On August 16, Disney Magic will call for a first-time visit and also a first for Disney Cruise Line, notes Line Tange, Cruise Manager, Cruise Fredericia. The destination of Fredericia has gained top-ratings from several cruise lines during 2018 she adds. Fredericia has been ranked as number 2 out of 218 destinations worldwide by Fred Olsen Cruise Line guests and when it comes to guest satisfaction for the welcoming ceremony on the cruise quay, Fredericia was ranked 17 out of 218 destinations worldwide,’ reports Tange.
Gateway to Denmark’s historical sites- Fredericia is a small historical city in Northern Europe. Local attractions include Hans Christian Andersen’s childhood home, castles, Viking Experience, LEGOLAND and three UNESCO attractions. Michelin Star restaurant Ti Trin Ned is also located on the waterfront.
New transfer shuttle train- A new drop off shuttle train transfer from the quay to the city centre will be available this year. Many of our guests chose to walk the short distance from the cruise quay to the city centre, but for those, who prefer to take a shuttle train, this will now be an extra service for our guests’, says Tange. In 2021, Denmark will host The Grand Départ and two more stages of the Tour de France. On July 4 a stage will be near Fredericia.
Source: Seatrade Cruise News
Australia is back as No. 2 market for Silversea Expeditions
Conrad Combrink, Silversea’s svp expeditions and destination experiences, told Seatrade Cruise News that Australia is back as No. 2 global market for the company’s expedition voyages, after the United States. Combrink, who is on a whirlwind sales tour covering Noosa in Queensland, Melbourne and Perth, said Australia had slipped back to No. 3 position after a resurgence in bookings from the United Kingdom. The source markets now line up as the US, Australia and the UK.
Expedition ships galore- Combrink, who recently moved from Cape Town to Silversea’s Miami office, said never before have there been so many global expedition ships in the water and on order. However, he said, Silversea was the first to offer luxury expedition cruising and is now offering a 167-day expedition voyage aboard the ice-class Silver Cloud, departing Ushuaia on January 30, 2021, for Tromsø.
167 days of complimentary laundry-He said the all-inclusive voyage, which will travel to 107 destinations in 30 countries, will even include complimentary laundry for the entire 167 days. Our guests will travel around the world like no others before them,’ Combrink said. As earlier reported, Cruise West had begun operating a 335-day world expedition voyage in 2010, but the company ceased operations before it was completed.
Source: Seatrade Cruise News
