In ship news, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s second yacht, Ilma, set sail on its inaugural voyage. This past week, Travel Agent also learned that one of American Cruise Lines’ (ACL) new modern riverboats launching in 2026 will be called American Encore. Many other new ACL small ships will set sail prior to that including American Legend, a coastal catamaran, which arrives this November.
A new cruise terminal has opened at Fusina, Italy, a port often used when guests are heading to Venice, Italy. Last week, Silversea’s Silver Ray became the first cruise ship to homeport at this new facility, according to Seatrade Cruise News.
Windstar Cruises has announced itinerary plans and opened reservations for voyages aboard its newest ship Star Seeker. The 112-suite yacht will join the company’s fleet in December 2025. Norwegian Cruise Line unveiled additional cruises for its 2026 spring/summer season in Europe including more seven-night voyages with limited or no sea days. In addition, guests can embark on voyages through the South Pacific, Canada/New England and the western Caribbean.
The "Fun Ship" line has announced details of its 2026-27 cruises to the Caribbean and the Bahamas from two Gulf of Mexico home ports. Carnival Cruise Line said that Carnival Paradise will be based in Tampa year-round, while Carnival Legend will sail from that port seasonally. Carnival Spirit will homeport seasonally in Mobile.
Holland America Line has unveiled its 2026 Alaska lineup with six ships: Eurodam, Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Noordam, Westerdam and Zaandam. Unforgettable Travel Company has launched its collection of small-ship cruise and land itineraries for Greece in 2025; the line's global offerings include sailings on Ponant, Emerald Cruises, Star Clippers, SeaDream Yacht Club, Seabourn and others.
Azamara has unveiled its “Hidden Gems Sale,” offering all travelers $500 onboard credit, as well as a choice between complimentary Wi-Fi and a Premium Beverage Package for those who reserve a veranda or suite. The offer is available for select voyages booked between now and October 30, 2024.
On the trade front, Quark Expeditions has announced a new “Quote and Hold” tool for travel advisors. It enables advisors to generate quotes in real-time, secure cabin space 24/7, and manage the administrative process independently.
Cruise industry veteran Angela Composto was appointed as the new vice president of sales and marketing for Orient Express Silenseas. The luxury yachting brand's first sail-powered, 120-passenger vessel, Orient Express Corinthian, will debut in 2026.
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