Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is back in Asia for the first time in three years. Last week, Norwegian Jewel sailed from Tokyo, Japan, the start of a six-month deployment for NCL in the region. Sixteen different itineraries will span 10 to 14 days.
In the Middle East, Royal Caribbean International’s Rhapsody of the Seas evacuated many Americans and their immediate family members from Haifa, Israel. They disembarked in Cyprus. In a statement, the cruise line said: "Royal Caribbean Group is actively assisting the U.S. Department of State in an effort to evacuate American citizens in the area.” Given geopolitical tensions, Americans have had issues getting out of Israel, given that all U.S. airlines have suspended Israel flights.
Also in the Middle East, MSC Cruises has canceled the full winter season for MSC Orchestra in the Red Sea. The cruise line cited proximity of some calls to Israel as well as restrictions in bordering countries.
Grand Bahama Shipyard Ltd. is undertaking a $600 million expansion project. The Bahamian shipyard, together with Royal Caribbean Group and Carnival Corporation, recently received approval to proceed with the project that should bring billions of dollars in positive economic impact to Grand Bahama’s economy over the next 25 years. It will involve the construction of two world-class floating docks and their delivery to Freeport. There, the docks will be used for major ship repair projects and vessel updates -- both for existing cruise ships as well as the largest new cruise vessels that will be launching soon. Also, the docks will be used for commercial ship repair projects.
Cultural and Culinary Moves
Cultural programming continues to be a hot draw for cruise guests. With that in mind, Aurora Expeditions announced its Antarctica special guest program including founder’s voyages, while Sea Cloud Cruises will welcome culinary and literary notables onboard several 2024 sailings.
On the culinary front, Princess Cruises has partnered with world-famous butcher Dario Cecchini to introduce a new, specialty impromptu bistro, “The Butcher's Block by Dario,” onboard the new Sun Princess, debuting in February 2024. Separately, Royal Princess just began cruises from Australia and New Zealand, one of five Princess ships positioned "down under" for fall and winter.
Ending its eight-year partnership with Chef Thomas Keller, Seabourn will debut Solis, a new Mediterranean culinary experience. The concept will launch on Seabourn Quest in January 2024, and also on Seabourn Encore, Seabourn Ovation and Seabourn Sojourn by spring 2024.
More Cruise Developments
Look for Royal Caribbean Group to report third quarter 2023 financial results in a few days. The company is the parent of Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Silversea Cruises.
Separately, Silversea Cruises has opened a pre-sale period for winter 2025-2026 voyages. According to sister publication, Luxury Travel Advisor, the voyage collection will comprise more than 150 new sailings, nine maiden calls and two new grand voyages.
For what's new on the small-ship front, also check out that trade publication's October 2023 article. It details news and itinerary tidbits about sailing ships, upscale yachts, small-ship luxury vessels and expedition cruise lines.