In the return of global cruise operations, New Zealand welcomed P&O Cruises’ Pacific Explorer last week; that ship was the first international ship to sail into Auckland’s Waitemata Harbor in more than two years. That came after New Zealand’s government decided to open the international maritime border after July 31. Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) says the country can now begin rebuilding an industry previously worth almost $367 million annually to the New Zealand economy.
American Cruise Lines has accepted delivery of the new, 175-passenger American Symphony from Chesapeake Shipbuilding in Salisbury, MD. The ship is now sailing to New Orleans, where its first cruise will begin August 27. Its christening will occur August 30 in Natchez, MS.
Princess Cruises updated the schedule for the remainder of this year's Alaska season, given the closure of a pier in Skagway where its ships dock. Alternative docking arrangements in Skagway have been made for 21 of 31 scheduled voyages, but the remainder of the sailings will instead call at Icy Strait Point, Haines or Sitka.
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On the global river cruise front, Viking began sailing in Southeast Asia with Viking Saigon, as reported by sister publication, Luxury Travel Advisor.
Windstar Cruises has unveiled new Central American and Caribbean cruises on Star Pride and Wind Surf for winter 2023. Ponant also detailed its new voyages for winter 2023-2024.
Meanwhile, the march of countries to lessen or drop COVID-19 requirements continues. France has dropped all its remaining COVID travel-related restrictions.
Last week, in a one-on-one interview, Ruben Rodriguez, president, MSC Cruises USA talked to Travel Agent about plans for the brand.
And on a sad note, Vicky Garcia, co-owner and COO, Cruise Planners, has passed. A separate tribute story today on Travel Agent features comments from cruise and travel industry leaders, Cruise Planners franchise advisors/owners as well as Michelle Fee, founder and CEO, celebrate Garcia's life and legacy.
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