Among top cruise news, Oceania Cruises has announced that its 670-passenger Insignia will bring Oceania's upper premium cruise product to the Port of Tampa in early 2026. Insignia is right sized for sailing under the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, which has a height restriction that prohibits many of the industry's largest cruise ships from reaching the port. The new service—comprising seven- to 21-night voyages—is expected to benefit Oceania's loyal past guests as well as new-to-cruise passengers. Not only does Tampa have robust air service, but it's much closer than South Florida's cruise ports for drive-market customers from north Florida, Alabama and Georgia.
Royal Caribbean Group ordered a fourth Icon-class ship from Meyer Terku, a major Finland shipyard. In addition, it took "options" for ordering up to two more vessels in that series. Currently, Royal Caribbean international's Icon of the Seas reigns as the world's largest cruise ship. Separately, the Bahamas signed an agreement with Grand Bahama Shipyard, authorizing a $600 million revitalization project that will create the world's largest cruise repair facility.
Travel Agent sailed the Upper Mississippi River this past week on Viking's 386-passengerViking Mississippi. Check out our first article detailing our Deluxe Balcony Stateroom, the Living Room and several elements of the experience—from the pre-cruise stay in St. Louis, to the Great River Road Exploration shore excursion. Look for our second article soon about other public spaces, our visit to an Iowa farm and more.
Holland America Line opened bookings for its 2026 Alaska cruise season with six ships in "The Great Land." The line also opened sales giving guests a chance to sample its Grand Voyages by booking a segment of either the “2025 Grand World Voyage” or “2025 Grand Voyage: Pole to Pole,” for as little as $169 per day, including all taxes and fees.
Princess Cruises plans to sail to all regions of the Caribbean in 2026, while Celestyal announced that it is repositioning ships away from the Red Sea for 2024-2025. For a look at some of the upcoming 2025 and 2026 eco-adventure cruise options in the Galapagos Islands, check out sister publication Luxury Travel Advisor's "Wild Things" article.
On the trade front, AmaWaterways unveiled a “Sell Five, Sail Free” incentive for travel advisors.
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