New Water Park 🌊, Loyalty Perks, and Travel Mishaps


Nassau port's new water park to boost tourism 🌊 (2 minute read)

A new $35 million water park will be constructed in Nassau, Bahamas, as part of a $330 million port redevelopment. Scheduled for completion by December 2025, the park aims to provide cruise passengers with an exciting, family-friendly activity directly at the port. This addition is expected to enhance Nassau's appeal, complementing existing attractions like Paradise Island's Atlantic Resort. The project reflects Nassau's ongoing efforts to boost tourism and passenger satisfaction at one of the world's busiest cruise destinations.


Princess Cruises unveils double credits loyalty program 🚒 (3 minute read)

Princess Cruises has introduced the Captain’s Circle Loyalty Accelerator program, doubling cruise credits for guests purchasing the Princess Plus and Premier Packages for cruises departing August 1 to December 1, 2024. This initiative aims to expedite passengers' progress through loyalty tiers, including Gold, Ruby, Platinum, and Elite, each offering increasing benefits such as spa discounts, priority boarding, and members-only events. This program highlights Princess Cruises' commitment to enhancing customer loyalty and value.


Oklahoma family stranded in Alaska by cruise mishap ❄️ (5 minute read)

An Oklahoma family of nine was left stranded in remote Alaska when their Norwegian Cruise Lines ship departed without them, taking their passports and medication. A mix-up with a local tour resulted in the family missing the boat, and they were subsequently charged nearly $9,000 due to US Customs regulations. Norwegian Cruise Lines has promised refunds and compensation. The incident sparked controversy over cruise policies, especially given the vulnerable passengers involved.


Virgin Voyages introduces "Kids Sail Free" promotion πŸ†“ (4 minute read)

Virgin Voyages has launched a "Kids Sail Free" promotion, allowing young adults aged 18 to 26 to sail at no cost when accompanied by parents or guardians. This offers families a chance for bonding and celebrating milestones. Valid for bookings made from July 23 to August 23, 2024, and travel through December 31, 2024, the offer applies only to a second sailor in the cabin, with additional restrictions.


Carnival orders three mega cruise ships by 2033 πŸ—οΈ (5 minute read)

Carnival Cruise Line has ordered three new ships nearly 230,000 gross tons each from Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri, set for delivery in 2029, 2031, and 2033. These ships will be the largest ever for Carnival, featuring over 3,000 staterooms with capacities exceeding 6,000 guests. Powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), they aim to incorporate advanced environmentally-friendly technologies. This expansion reflects Carnival's strategic growth amidst high demand and enhances its fleet with innovative guest experiences.


Princess Cruises cancels anticipated Sun Princess attractions πŸ‘‘ (4 minute read)

Princess Cruises announced that key attractions aboard the new Sun Princess, such as the RollGlider, Coastal Climb, and Ropes Course, will not open. These features were designed to offer unique thrills but faced unforeseen issues. Despite this setback, Sun Princess still offers a range of activities like the Infinite Horizon, Splash Zone, and Recreational Court. The ship, launched February 2024, will continue its Mediterranean itineraries before heading to the Caribbean.


Possible cruise ship boycott due to anti-tourism protests πŸͺ§ (4 minute read)

The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has raised concerns about potential boycotts of Spanish ports due to escalating anti-tourism protests. Demonstrations in Barcelona and Mallorca have targeted tourists, arguing that tourism inflates housing costs and strains local infrastructure. Despite these protests, CLIA anticipates a 10% increase in cruise capacity over the next five years. In contrast, countries in the Middle East and Asia are investing heavily in welcoming cruise tourism, aiming to attract millions of passengers annually.


Cruise industry strengthens cybersecurity against evolving cyber threats πŸ–₯️ (6 minute read)

The article highlights Carnival Corporation's extensive efforts to bolster cybersecurity within the cruise industry. Led by Devon Bryan and Leigh Carr, the company implements layered defense strategies across various critical systems, emphasizing resilience and rapid recovery. Collaboration with industry bodies and securing remote access have been pivotal, especially in light of COVID-19. The overarching goal is to protect lives, data, and environmental safety, aligning cybersecurity with the corporation's strategic imperatives.


Villa Vie Odyssey Reschedules Launch to July 30 πŸš€ (3 minute read)

The launch of Villa Vie Residences, initially planned for May 15, 2024, has been rescheduled to start on July 30, 2024, due to technical delays. Operating the former Braemar, Villa Vie aims to provide a continuous sailing experience to 425 global destinations over a 1,301-day itinerary. The ship has been refurbished but faced setbacks. Compensation options are offered to affected guests. The updated itinerary focuses on Europe and the Atlantic.

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