This past week, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings—parent of Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises—announced that guests of all three brands will no longer be required to complete pre-embarkation COVID-19 testing unless that's required by the destination. This policy will go into effect across the lines' fleets, effective August 1, 2022.
It's important to recognize, however, that authorities in the U.S., Canada, Greece, Bermuda and some other countries/destinations still require pre-boarding testing for guests sailing from their ports. That said, the NCLH decision signaled the start of the company's loosening of testing protocols for boarding, at least if permitted by authorities in port destinations.
Keel Laying Celebration
Ship-wise, Royal Caribbean International celebrated the keel-laying ceremony for its new LNG-powered Utopia of the Seas at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France. The ship is expected to debut in spring 2024.
Many cruise lines are starting to expand into Asia, where many ports and countries closed to cruise ships as the pandemic hit. For example, this past week, Coral Expeditions launched new small-ship voyages to the small islands of Japan and the Philippines. Coral Adventurer will sail from Guam on the inaugural expedition of the series in September 2023.
As for new shore options for cruisers, Celestyal Cruises, a Greek cruise line, is introducing new small group experiences at Greek and Turkish port destinations. Designed for two to 20 guests, they'll allow cruisers to immerse themselves more deeply into the destination via new food, wine, art, archaeology, culture and adventure activities.
On the financial front for travel advisors, through year’s end, Scenic Group USA’s new “Advance Commission Program,” will assist travel partners with early commission payments. If clients pay in full for their Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, Scenic Eclipse or Emerald Cruises' vacation at least six months out from the sailing date, travel advisors will receive their full commission within 21 days.
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