Page 205 – Cruise Hive (2024)

• Ports
• Royal Caribbean News

Jun 15, 2023

Royal Caribbean has tapped a local Bahamian to head operations at the cruise line’s new Royal Beach Club at Paradise Island, slated to open in 2025. The public-private partnership with the Bahamian government will offer cruisers a new destination and experiences while calling at Nassau.

Bahamian Executive to Take Reins at Beach Project

Bahamian business and land development executive Philip Simon was named president of Royal Beach Club at Paradise Island and general manager of Royal Caribbean International Bahamas, and is tasked with leading the cruise line’s future growth in the destination.

Royal Caribbean, a brand of Royal Caribbean Group, along with Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea Cruises, made the announcement on June 15, 2023.

“With a project as significant as the Royal Beach Club at Paradise Island that will introduce a first-of-its-kind public-private partnership, we are committed to maximizing Bahamian participation and building a development that will set new standards in environmental design and operation in The Bahamas,” said Jay Schneider, Chief Product Innovation Officer, Royal Caribbean International.

Simon will supervise all aspects of the planned beach club and serve as the local chief executive working with the Bahamian government as the project takes shape.

“Philip, a resident and native of The Bahamas, has the experience and reputation to ensure that,” added Schneider.

After Delay, Beach Club on Track to Open in 2025

The beach club has been in the planning stages since 2020 but was sidelined by the pandemic. Royal Caribbean disclosed in March 2023 that it had received final approval from Bahamian officials to move ahead with the development.

The Royal Beach Club will be located on a 17-acre site at the western end of Paradise Island, in Nassau, and easily accessible for cruise guests disembarking ships at the Port of Nassau.

The club will feature private cabanas, pools, multiple beaches and eateries, and will sport traditional Bahamian architecture and design.

Entry to the club will be offered to guests of Royal Caribbean via an excursion-style booking, which indicates there could be a cost to access the site, although that hasn’t been announced.

Read Also: IDEAL Things to Do in Nassau, Bahamas

In a first-of-its-kind partnership with a private company, the Bahamian government will own 4 acres of the beach club land, while Royal Caribbean owns the remaining 13 acres. The government land is being contributed as equity in the venture.

In addition to overseeing the development of the club, Simon also will recruit local Bahamians to build and eventually operate the club. The project allows Bahamians to own up to a 49% stake in the club, and Simon will drive those efforts as well.

“I am excited to represent both Royal Caribbean International and the country in what will be a very unique opportunity for all sides, with the new beach club and the tremendous potential for extended growth and partnership for years to come,” said Simon.

Simon previously served as managing partner of PMR Bahamas Realty, president of the New Providence Development Company, and CEO of the Bahamas Chamber of Commerce. He has deep ties to the Bahamian community through his participation in many civic organizations.

A Different Vibe From Perfect Day at CocoCay

Royal Caribbean also operates a private Bahamian island branded as Perfect Day at CocoCay. The 125-acre island, about 55 miles north of Nassau, offers attractions such as waterslides and water sports, a helium balloon ride, and the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean.

The cruise line’s ships dock at the island and all guests are invited to experience the destination as part of their cruise, with no additional entry charge.

The Royal Beach Club is not slated to feature the same kinds of activities as CocoCay. Rather it is intended to be an ultimate beach day with signature Royal Caribbean experiences.

• Norwegian Cruise Line News
• Ports

Jun 15, 2023

In a further development from a report by Cruise Hive yesterday, Norwegian Cruise Line has announced the cancellation of all port calls to Valdez, Alaska, this season.

The City of Valdez has now confirmed that an initial cancellation for the call on June 15, extends to all remaining port calls by Norwegian Spirit for the 2023 season.

The cancelled calls include multiple dates throughout June, July, and August 2023. Other cruise lines still have some calls scheduled to the port, but these are far fewer than the number of calls scheduled for Norwegian Spirit.

Change in Itineraries

Norwegian Cruise Line has removed Valdez in Alaska from all of its remaining Alaska cruises this summer for reasons unknown. This follows earlier reports of the port call scheduled for today, June 15, being cancelled.

The city government announced yesterday, June 14, it had been informed by the cruise line of the cancelled calls.

The announcement reads: “The City of Valdez profoundly regrets to announce the cancellation of all Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) port calls to Valdez, Alaska, for the remainder of the 2023 season.”

“The City understands and shares the disappointment that may arise from this cancellation. We sincerely apologize to the passengers and all those who eagerly anticipated the arrival of the NCL ship in our picturesque port. The City of Valdez remains committed to supporting the tourism industry and fostering the growth of our local economy.”

The Norwegian Spirit port calls were initially scheduled on the following dates: June 15, June 27, June 29, July 11, July 13, July 25, July 27, August 8, August 10, August 22, and August 24.

The announcement means the cancellation of eleven calls to Valdez and a significant economic impact on many city tour guides and shop owners.

At 75,390 gross tons and a guest capacity of 2,018, the Norwegian Spirit is sailing a series of seven and 14-day cruises to Alaska from Vancouver and Seward.

While the City of Valdez might be committed to supporting its tourism industry and local economy, local businesses and services will feel the absence of port calls by a ship this size.

“We will work closely with Norwegian Cruise Line to explore alternative opportunities and future collaborations. The Port of Valdez remains an enchanting destination, and we are actively engaged in efforts to develop exciting new itineraries that will continue to showcase the natural beauty and unique experiences our city has to offer,” the city said.

The city and Norwegian Cruise Line have offered no explanations for cancelling the port calls.

Ongoing Voyages to Valdez

Despite the Norwegian Spirit‘s absence, other cruise lines continue their calls to Valdez. Ships such as Viking Cruises’ Viking Orion, Silversea’s Silver Whisper, Holland America Line’s MS Noordam, and Windstar Cruises‘ Star Breeze have scheduled stops in the town this summer.

These visits, however, are comparatively fewer in number than the calls Norwegian Spirit had initially planned for the season.

• Carnival Cruise Line News
• Ports

Jun 15, 2023

It was a banner day for Curacao when two Carnival Cruise Line ships called at one of the island’s cruise terminals, including the acclaimed ship Mardi Gras and the Carnival Horizon. Port officials celebrated the arrival of more than 11,000 guests between the two vessels, with over 10,000 going ashore.

Carnival Horizon, Mardi Gras Deliver 11,000-Plus Cruise Guests

The Curacao Ports Authority hailed the island’s first visit from Carnival Cruise Line’s popular Mardi Gras on June 14, 2023. The ship entered service in 2021 and has a capacity of 6,500 guests.

The 4,977-guest Carnival Horizon visited the port at the same time. With both ships sailing at nearly full capacity – 6,407 on Mardi Gras and 4,913 on Carnival Horizon, the port welcomed 11,320 cruise guests that day, with more than 10,000 of them spending time ashore.

Representatives from the port and the ship’s agent, Maduro Shipping, held an inaugural ceremony onboard the Mardi Gras, exchanging placards with the ship’s captain and other top brass.

Read Also: Best Things to Do in Curacao for Cruisers

Port officials addressed the attendees and officially welcomed the captain, crew, and passengers to the island, noting the cruise industry’s economic importance to the destination.

With her inaugural visit, Mardi Gras became the line’s first Excel-class ship to call at Curacao. Mardi Gras, which entered service in 2021, is Carnival Cruise Line’s first ship operating with liquified natural gas (LNG), a clean-burning fuel thatcuts sulfur emissions up to 99% and nitrogen oxide emissions by 85%.

There are several other firsts attached to Mardi Gras, which was named after Carnival Cruise Line’s first Mardi Gras, a ship that launched in 1972 and signaled the cruise line’s march toward becoming one of the largest and most popular cruise lines in the world.

The ship features the industry’s first rollercoaster at sea, and in a nod to its New Orleans-inspired name, the Mardi Gras has a French Quarter neighborhood onboard, with live entertainment, bars and dining venues that capture the spirit of the Big Easy. Another onboard section, La Piazza, sports an Italian theme and offers restaurants specializing in cuisine from Italy.

The ship’s ropes course, called The SkyCourse, is the cruise line’s longest course at 600 feet. It features various obstacles and challenges, and has a zip line experience as well.

Sailing year-round from Port Canaveral, Mardi Gras’ itinerary also included Oranjestad, Aruba, and Grand Turk in the Turks and Caicos. The ship will arrive back at her Florida home port on June 18. She sails a series of 6- to 8-day Eastern, Western, and Southern Caribbean itineraries.

In addition to her call at Curacao, Carnival Horizon, a Vista-class ship home-ported in Miami, also is calling at Oranjestad, Aruba, and La Romana and Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, this week. She will return to Miami on June 18.

The ship has many entertaining features, including SkyRide, a pedal-powered ride suspended above the ship offering outstanding sea views, a SportsSquare with a challenging ropes course, the WaterWorks playground for children, the Twister WaterSlide, and two pools.

Carnival Horizon sails year-round from Miami, and like Mardi Gras, offers 6- to 8-day Eastern, Western, and Southern Caribbean itineraries.

Curacao a Great Port for Cultural Buffs

Curacao, along with Aruba and Bonaire, make up the ABC Islands, and are the three westernmost islands of the Leeward Antilles. Curacao’s two cruise terminals are in the capital of Willemstad, known for its Dutch and Spanish architecture.

The town of Punda is home to historical landmarks such as the oldest Jewish synagogue in the Americas and Fort Amsterdam. The town is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Streets in Punda and Willemstad are dotted with eateries, unique shops, and other tourist attractions.

The island is a popular port call and regularly receives ships from other major lines besides Carnival Cruise Line, such as Holland America Line, Royal Caribbean, Viking, and Celebrity Cruises, among others.

• Asia Cruise News

Jun 15, 2023

CSSC Carnival Cruise Shipping Limitedhas just revealed that it will rebrand its official moniker with a new name. From now on, the Carnival-owned cruise line will be known as Adora Cruises Limited.

Adora Cruises Limited: Name Change

On June 15, 2023, CSSC Carnival Cruise Shipping Limited publicized its immediate name change and henceforth will be known as Adora Cruises Limited.

This rebranding effort aims to bolster the company’s popularity and reputation among its customers by better aligning with its existing brand name, “Adora Cruises.”

“Our new company name is in line with our brand name, which is more memorable and recognizable. It better communicates our goal to build a most admired cruise brand in China,”Managing Director of Adora Cruises Limited Chen Ranfeng remarked.

“Together with the company’s name changing, Adora Cruises Limited gets ready to set sail in the full resumption of the Chinese cruise market,”Chen added.

This tactical rebranding choice embodies the company’s aspirations to offer its clientele “A Voyage in Love” while also positioning the company as China’s main “homegrown” cruise company, delivering entertaining voyages to all of its customers.

“After years of development, Adora Cruises Limited has become an independent and full-functioning cruise company and has its own brand,”Adora Cruises Limited Chairman Yang Guobing stated.

Founded in 2018, CSSC Carnival Cruise Shipping Limited—now known as Adora Cruises Limited—has diligently strived to strengthen its operational proficiency across various domains including sales, marketing, commercial operations, product design and development, hotel management, maritime operations, plus the supervision and development ofnewbuild projects.

Adora Cruises Limited’s Burgeoning Fleet

Adora Cruises Limited’s 135,500-tonAdora Magic City, the first-ever Chinese-built large cruise ship, completed its float-out at Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding Co. this year on June 6, 2023.

Through a partnership between Adora Cruises Limited and China Telecom Corp Ltd. Shanghai Branch, the world’s inaugural Chinese-built cruise shipAdora Magic Citywill also become the planet’s first cruising vessel equipped with a5G network.

As the final delivery of the Chinese-madeAdora Magic Cityapproaches (expected some time in thelatter part of 2023), cruise holiday enthusiasts based in China will have a lot to look forward to.

Shanghai will act as the homeport forAdora Magic Cityduring its inaugural cruising season. The vessel is currently scheduled to embark on ocean voyages to nearby countries in both Southeast Asia and Northeast Asia.

Adora Magic Citywill bedebuting a showentitled “Marco Polo: An Enchanted Love Tale” as well. The vessel will also boast the largest retail shopping center afloat on the water today.

The company is currently actively engaged in the design and construction phase of its second ship, a larger Vista-class vessel. This second Chinese-built ship will clock in at 142,000 tons and should be an impressive addition to Adora Cruises Limited’s growing fleet.

The company’s second homegrown ship is expected to embark on its maiden voyage in 2024, offering passengers many memorable experiences at sea.

Furthermore, the Spirit-classMediterranea, a 12-deck ship, coming in at 85,619 tons, and operated by Adora Cruises, is scheduled to commence its first-ever Chinese cruising season from Tianjin Port during the last quarter of 2023.

Adora Cruises is currently preppingMediterranea, with the goal of rebranding the vessel, plus adding some refurbishments and upgrades, to help it fall more in line with Adora Cruises Limited’s overall design aesthetics.

• Disney Cruise Line News

Jun 14, 2023

Disney Cruise Line has announced new enhancements for its 2023 “Very Merrytime” holiday sailings in November and December. Guests sailing during this very special time of year will enjoy brand new entertainment and activity offerings, favorite Disney characters in special seasonal attire, and much more.

New Festivities for Very Merrytime Cruises

Disney Cruise Line‘s “Very Merrytime” cruises will celebrate the holiday season with a variety of new onboard activities, merchandise, and more. The cruise line has announced several new offerings for these popular seasonal sailings, starting with two new interactive entertainment shows.

On the very first night of each holiday cruise, the ship’s atrium will be the focal point of setting sail for holiday fun with a tree-lighting ceremony. Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and Goofy will lead guests in a sing-a-long of classic carols before a countdown to light the three-deck-high decorated tree.

As the tree lights up the celebration, it will also welcome the guest of honor for each cruise, none other than Santa Claus.

The second new holiday experience will be Mickey and Minnie’s Holiday Party, an on-deck festive occasion celebrating all types of togetherness and friendship with both classic and original holiday songs for a high-energy fete. The world’s most famous mouse couple will host the party, which will also be attended by other favorite Disney friends.

More New Holiday Experiences Onboard

While the tree-lighting and deck party are the biggest and most festive additions to Disney Cruise Line’s holiday lineup, they aren’t the only new celebratory experiences travelers will find on four of Disney’s cruise ships this holiday season.

The beloved Disney friends and characters onboard will be debuting new festive attire, perfect for seasonal selfies to showcase great memories. Even the ships themselves will be decked out with bows, holly, garland, and other festive decorations for the season.

Different themed activities and games will focus on a variety of holiday traditions, and carolers throughout the ship will be singing different contemporary versions of carols to highlight different holidays and cultural perspectives.

Read Also: What to Expect on a Christmas Cruise

Finally, food and beverage items, as well as specialty merchandise available only onboard, will have a holiday focus, giving guests magical holiday memories to cherish for many merry seasons to come.

Holiday Cruises With Disney

Disney Cruise Line’s “Very Merrytime” sailings are only available during November and December, and can be found aboard four of the line’s five ships on their various sailings.

Disney Magic, the line’s first vessel, will be offering “Very Merrytime” sailings from two homeports in 2023, initially with Baja and Mexican Riviera cruises from San Diego before moving to Galveston to offer Western Caribbean options.

Disney Dream will be offering 4- and 5-night holiday sailings from Fort Lauderdale, visiting top destinations in the Western Caribbean and The Bahamas.

Both Disney Fantasy and the cruise line’s newest ship, Disney Wish, will be sailing from Port Canaveral during the holiday season, offering Eastern Caribbean, Western Caribbean, and Bahamas sailings depending on the ship and sailing date.

The fifth Disney Cruise Line ship, Disney Wonder, will be sailing in Australia and New Zealand during the holiday season and will have slightly different seasonal offerings to suit the Down Under festivities.

• MSC Cruises News

Jun 14, 2023

MSC Cruises has identified more than a dozen ports where its ships will soon be able to use shore power while vessels are docked, substantially reducing emissions. The cruise line’s ships are already using shore power or are testing the system at several European ports.

Line Identifies 15 Ports For Local Grid Connection

MSC Cruises announced the next phase of its shore power plan on June 14, identifying 15 additional ports in Europe and the US where its ships will be able to connect to shore power between 2024 and 2026.

The plan includes five ports in Italy; Barcelona and Valencia, Spain; Stavanger and Norfjordied, Norway; Miami; Copenhagen, Denmark; Marseille, France; Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Valletta, Malta, and Stockholm, Sweden.

Shore power connections have been installed on all of MSC Cruises’ new ships constructed since 2017, and other vessels have been retrofitted with the system, making 67% of the MSC Cruises fleet currently equipped with the technology.

Additionally, all ships in the cruise company’s new luxury brand, Explora Journeys, will be fitted with shore power capabilities. Explora Journeys’ first ship, Explora I, is due to enter service in July 2023, with five additional vessels to follow in the next five years.

MSC Cruises Moves Toward 100% Net-Zero

The ability to connect to shore power allows cruise ships to turn off their engines while in port while continuing to run hotel services on board.

MSC Cruises said it intends to use shore power at every port where it is available as part of the line’s goal to be 100% net-zero on greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

“We have invested heavily in hybrid exhaust gas cleaning systems to substantially reduce local air quality emissions and we now need more ports across Europe and beyond to introduce shore power as quickly as possible,” said Linden Coppell, MSC Cruises’ vice president of sustainability.

“By making major reductions to emissions in ports, we are fulfilling our responsibility to the ports and coastal communities that our ships visit and serve,” he added.

MSC Cruises’ ships since early this year, have used local grid shore power at Southampton, UK, and Kristiansand, Norway. In summer 2023, the line will test shore power at the Norwegian port of Haugesund, and later this year, shore power trials are slated at the ports in Bergen and Alesund, Norway, and at Warnemunde, Germany.

Read Also: What Fuel Do Cruise Ships Use?

The cruise line’s ships will connect to shore power at two other German ports, Hamburg in the winter of 2023 and Kiel in the summer of 2024.

MSC Cruises also hopes to advance the installation of shore power at Baltic Sea ports, and last year signed an agreement with Cruise Baltic to have shore power widely available in ports in the region by 2024.

MSC Euribia Considered Most Energy Efficient

MSC Cruises last week launched its newest ship,MSC Euribia, whichfeatures the most energy-efficient technology in the industry. The ship operates on liquified natural gas (LNG) and low-sulfur marine gas oil.

In addition to her LNG-powered engines,MSC Euribiais designed to incorporate future environmental sustainability innovations, such as carbon-neutral synthetic and alternative fuels. The ship was built with advanced onboard wastewater treatment and waste management systems.

MSC Euribia was christened in Copenhagen on June 8. The 184,011-gross-ton ship accommodates up to 6,334 guests. The shipwill spend her inaugural season inNorthern Europethis summer, operating 7-night cruises fromKiel,GermanyandCopenhagento the Norwegian Fjords.

Explora Journeys, meanwhile, has committed to green technologies for its future ships. While the luxury brand’s first two ships will be traditionally powered,Explora IIIandExplora IVwill be powered by LNG and hydrogen, eliminating many air pollutant emissions.

Explora VandExplora VIalso will be powered by a combination of LNG and hydrogen, and will contain a six-megawatt hydrogen fuel cell, a technology that eliminates all emissions while ships are in port.

• Norwegian Cruise Line News

Jun 14, 2023

In an unexpected move, Norwegian Cruise Line has announced the cancellation of its stop at Valdez, Alaska, this week on its cruise aboard the Norwegian Spirit.

The shift in the itinerary has sparked rumors online about Valdez being permanently scrapped from the ship’s routes. Norwegian Spirit will sail in Alaska through August this year, after which it will be repositioning to Hawaii and the Pacific Islands.

UPDATE: It has now been confirmed that the cruise line has canceled a full season of calls to Valdez in Alaska. You can read the new development right here.

Norwegian Spirit‘s Altered Itinerary

Norwegian Cruise Line has informed guests booked onboard the 7-night Alaska cruise onboard Norwegian Spirit departing today, June 14, that it has removed the port call to Valdez, Alaska.

Norwegian Spirit, which weighs 75,390 gross tons and has a passenger capacity of 2,018 guests, is currently sailing a series of seven and 14-day cruises to Alaska from Vancouver and Seward. However, as communicated in a recent letter to its guests, the cruise line has had to revise its itinerary due to reasons beyond its control.

“We are committed to delivering incredible vacation experiences. While we try to maintain original itineraries as much as possible, unfortunately, at times, there are circ*mstances outside our control that require us to make adjustments. “ the cruise line said in the letter.

“While we understand the disappointment this itinerary change may cause, we assure our guests that our other offerings will provide equally thrilling experiences.”

The Norwegian Spirit‘s itinerary was initially set to cruise from Seward to Valdez on June 14, with the call to Valdez scheduled for June 15.

The new itinerary has replaced the Valdez stop with a cruise through Hubbard Glacier, followed by a stop at the replacement for Valdez, Icy Strait Point, on June 16.Shore excursions booked for Valdez will be automatically canceled, and a full monetary refund will be issued.

Valdez, known for its diverse range of activities, is considered less popular than other Alaskan ports but still has many activities to enjoy. From adrenaline-filled activities like ice climbing and river rafting to various arts, entertainment, family activities, and natural attractions, the destination has much to offer its visitors.

This week’s cancellation has sparked rumors online with the suggestion that Norwegian Spirit will no longer call Valdez for this season. However, this has not currently been confirmed by Norwegian Cruise Line. Each of Norwegian Spirit’s cruises through August includes the port in its itineraries.

Future Plans for the Norwegian Spirit

The Norwegian Spirit is set to sail in Alaska until August this year. From there, she will reposition to the Pacific Ocean, with future cruises including a 16-night Alaska to Hawaii itinerary from August 30 to September 15, followed by several Hawaii and Pacific Ocean cruises and, from December, cruises between Sydney, Australia, and Auckland, New Zealand.

Norwegian Cruise Line disclosed the cancellation of most of Norwegian Spirit’s 2024 Alaska sailing season due to a full ship charter in May 2023 and has also cancelled various cruises due to dry docks and other reasons.

While these changes may disappoint some guests, Norwegian Cruise Line has plenty of alternative options. Guests can choose to sail on other Norwegian ships in Alaska, such as Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Bliss, and Norwegian Sun.

Additionally, Norwegian Spirit will offer longer itineraries in 2024 that include visits to Alaska alongside Hawaiian destinations.

• Ports
• Royal Caribbean News

Jun 14, 2023

On May 9, 2022, the cruise ship Radiance of the Seas crashed into the Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal pier, causing a minor hull indentation and significant damage to the terminal pier. The unfortunate incident disrupted larger cruise ship traffic to the terminal for the rest of the 2022 season and caused significant financial damage.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has conducted a thorough investigation and released its report on the incident. The report provides a fascinating view of how one human error and a seemingly inconsequential decision can quickly evolve and cause millions of dollars in damage.

Details of the Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal Incident

On May 9, 2022, during a cruise in Alaska, the 90,090 gross ton, 2,143-guest Radiance of the Seas approached the Sitka Cruise Terminal Pier. The master of the Radiance of the Sea requested the pilots onboard, of which there were four, that he and his crew moor and unmoor the ship. This would refamiliarize them with Alaskan ports— the pilots agreed.

The Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal, operational since 2011, had recently undergone a substantial extension in April 2021, extending the pier’s length from 895 feet to 1,390 feet.

However, the critical information about this extension was not adequately communicated to the Coast Guard and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). It was also absent from the navigation charts.

During the approach, the master of Radiance of the Seas relied heavily on incomplete Electronic Navigational Charts (ENC). The vessel began its rotation too close to the pier, colliding with the mooring dolphin and breaking three piles the dolphin was secured with.

A Chain of Errors

The investigation by the NTSB attributed the collision primarily to the overreliance on the incomplete electronic charts by the master and the bridge team. There was also a crucial misunderstanding between the master and a crew member about the ship’s clearance from the pier during rotation.

The failure of Sitka Port to report the pier extension to the hydrographic authority was also noted as a significant contributing factor. While Radiance of the Seas does have an additional radar scanner and camera on the stern of the vessel, both used for maneuvering and to see objects astern, neither was used during the incident.

The incident highlights the necessity of accurate voyage planning and the importance of prompt reporting by all those involved with ports, ships, or construction.

The potential incidents that can lead to financial and operational consequences can be significant. Surprisingly, this was already the second call for Radiance of the Seas to Sitka in 2022, with no incidents reported during the first call.

The Financial Impact of the Mishap

The collision led to a repair cost of approximately $2.1 million for the Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal pier. The repair work to fix the minor hull indentation on the Radiance of the Seas is not specified but would be an additional cost.

More significantly, the disruption caused by this incident to larger cruise ship traffic will have led to a substantial loss of income from docking fees, passenger spending, and associated tourism revenues.

Despite stringent regulations in the maritime industry, this incident underscores how human error and communication gaps can lead to significant repercussions. It is an important reminder of the crucial role of communication in ensuring the safety and efficiency of the cruise industry.

Read Also: Your Guide to the Best Alaska Cruise Ports

Despite no human injuries occurring, the combination of a port authority failing to report changes to its pier, pilots consenting to vessel docking, over-reliance on electronic charts, and a breakdown in communication between the Captain and Bosun could have resulted in far more severe consequences.

• Luxury Cruise News

Jun 14, 2023

Seabourn has just announced that it’s set to launch improved in-suite dining menus and gastronomic offerings this year. These new gourmet 24-hour in-suite dining experiences will be unveiled onSeabourn Venturein June 2023.

Seabourn Reimagines 24-Hour In-Suite Dining

The luxury expedition cruise line Seabourn recently announced its plans to “elevate” the company’s 24-hour in-suite dining with enhanced menus.

Seabourn will introduce an upgraded and fairly diverse selection of exquisitely displayed (and of course, very tasty) epicurean pleasures, all meticulously crafted by the company’s team of talented food experts. Debuting onSeabourn Ventureon June 18, 2023, these upgraded menus are slated to expand fleet-wide by October 2023.

The 23,000-tonSeabourn Venture, built in Italy byT. Mariottiin 2022, is a luxury expedition mega yacht designed to polar class standards, which enables it to venture where other ships dare not go (perfect for ocean adventures).

Currently, Seabourn sails seven vessels—including two expedition ships,Seabourn Venture, and her sister ship, the Starlink-internet-equippedSeabourn Pursuit(also 23,000 gross tons).

Fine In-Suite Dining Aboard Seabourn Vessels

Seabourn’s latest in-suite dining menus, developed in partnership with the esteemed Master Chef and Culinary Consultant Anton Egger, as well as with the company’s Senior Corporate Chef Franck Salein, promise to elevate the cruise line’s culinary offerings.

“At Seabourn, we are unwavering in our commitment to providing ultra-luxury experiences that delight all the senses,”Seabourn president Natalya Leahy pointed out.

“Our culinary offerings have long been celebrated for their superb quality, and we take great pride in offering world-class gourmet dining on our ships,”Leahy continued.“The new in-suite dining menus will further elevate our onboard culinary experience, allowing our guests to savor the exceptional taste and sophistication of our cuisine right in the comfort of their own suites.”

Whether guests choose to dine inside their suites or on their exclusive balconies, they will be able to savor extraordinary food while enjoying incredible panoramas as they sail around the globe. Leahy also called attention to Seabourn’s commitment to providing its guests with Michelin-level cuisine.

Seabourn’s enhanced menu options should offer passengers a delightful variety of dining options. Some of the highlights include lighter fare like Rustic Garden Vegetable Minestrone, Franck’s Riviera Style Vegetable Tartine, and “Fregola con Melanzane” Sardinian Tomato Fregola Pasta.

Vegetarian and vegan dishes will be on offer as well. And beloved favorites—coming with a bit of an update—will be available too, like Crispy Skin Fresh Alaskan Salmon Fillet, Oven Roasted Free Range Chicken Sausage Casserole, and Thyme Roasted Jidori Chicken Breast.

Indulgent desserts like Tony’s Childhood Banana Split and Black Forest Sundae should easily satisfy any sweet cravings adventurers might have while aboard one of Seabourn’s ships.

Guests will also still be able to enjoy Seabourn’s renowned in-suite breakfast options. During dinner hours, they can also opt for in-suite course-by-course service from The Restaurant.

Seabourn’s “Celebrity” Chefs Guide the Way

Seabourn’s heightened in-suite dining menus draw inspiration from the global travel experiences and diverse backgrounds of Chef Egger and Chef Salein.

Chef Salein boasts a background as an executive chef in multiple two and three-Michelin-starred establishments, which means he brings a wealth of experience to the Seabourn team.

Chef Egger cut his culinary teeth running his renowned eateries in Singapore and Bangkok, as well as collaborating with Michelin-starred chefs around the planet.

This talented culinary ensemble specializes in creating dishes that cater to various appetites, while still showing off the team’s artistic flair. These new “elevated” onboard menus should be well appreciated by Seabourn’s culinarily discerning passengers.