On the new ship front, Explora Journeys, the luxury travel brand of MSC Group's Cruise Division, and Fincantieri have signed an agreement for the construction of two more luxury cruise ships, Explora V and Explora VI. They'll begin sailing in 2027 and 2028, respectively. While LNG-powered, they'll be even more technologically advanced than the previously-ordered, LNG-powered Explora III and Explora IV. With the new order, Explora Journeys will tap into liquid hydrogen to power a fuel cell that can provide emissions-free power for the ship's hotel operation in port.
Scenic Group’s second Discovery Yacht, Scenic Eclipse II, was “floated out” from a Croatian shipyard, as reported in sister publication, Luxury Travel Advisor. A sister to Scenic Eclipse, the new yacht will begin cruising with guests aboard in April 2023.
Expanding its footprint, Princess Cruises announced that it will begin year-round sailings from Los Angeles in 2023. That means its first-ever summer season of sailings roundtrip from that port to Mexico, Hawaii and the California Coast. Look for Emerald Princess to operate five- to 16-day voyages between May and August 2023.
But last week also had some industry challenges. The U.S. Coast Guard issued a “No Sail” order for the Margaritaville at Sea Paradise, sailing from Palm Beach to the Bahamas. That caused the cancellation of one cruise; however, the order was lifted after corrective action was taken and the ship is now back sailing.
In addition, Alberto Aliberti, who has served as president of the new Atlas Ocean Voyages since 2019, will be leaving his role at month’s end. In a statement, the luxe-adventure line said a new CEO/president for the brand will start in early August 2022; no name was yet announced.
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In other news, American Queen Voyages is debuting a new “Field of Dreams” experience on its Upper Mississippi River sailings, starting with American Countess' arrival in Dubuque, IA, on July 22, 2022. Guests can opt for the new experience on eight sailings between St. Louis (Alton, IL) and Minneapolis (Red Wing, MN), through October 2022.
MSC Cruises’ upcoming U.S. flagship, MSC Seascape, which will begin sailing later this year, will offer a number of new entertainment options. Most notably for younger travelers, the ship’s futuristically designed children’s area will span 7,567 square feet and include two new LEGO rooms.
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