SeaView Cruises

10/03/2025

For those old enough, who could forget ET child star Drew Barrymore as the 1982 blockbuster fantasy unfolded? Especially that final tear-jerking scene.

Well now she'll be taking on a new starring role in April, this time as godmother for MSC Cruises’ new US flagship, MSC World America.

She will be cutting the ribbon and triggering the traditional breaking of a bottle of champagne on the ship’s bow at the naming ceremony at the new MSC Miami Cruise Terminal.

And beside her will be another Hollywood star, Orlando Bloom, who co-stars with her in the company’s “Lets Holiday” campaign.

Barrymore said: “I absolutely love to travel. It fuels my soul, and being part of something that helps people set off on incredible adventures is just amazing.

“There’s something so magical about cruises; they let you discover the world in this really fun, unexpected way. And to be able to name MSC World America and send the ship off with well wishes and good luck is such an honour.”

ET child star Drew Barrymore to be godmother of MSC Cruises' new US flagship, MSC World America.

08/02/2025

American Cruise Lines is delivering its biggest Alaska cruise season ever in 2025, with two small ships offering five itineraries between May and September.

It has repositioned small ship American Constitution to the West Coast for summer Alaska cruises and spring and autumn Puget Sound cruises.

Doubling capacity in the region, the 170-passenger American Constitution joins sister ship American Constellation sailing a line-up of five different Alaska itineraries, including two new Alaska National Parks cruises.

Prices for the American’s 2025 Alaska season start from £4,630 per person.

Example itinerary: 9-day Southeast Alaska Cruise: sails roundtrip from Juneau visiting Haines, Glacier Bay National Park, Petersburg, Wrangell, and Tracy Arm/Sawyer Glacier, and sailing the Wrangell Narrows.

For further details email [email protected]

American Cruise Lines delivering its biggest Alaska cruise season ever in 2025

08/02/2025

You'll need a bit of stamina to undertake Viking's full 170-day Viking World Voyage III setting sail in December 2026.

If you opt for the entire cruise you'll board Viking Sky in Ford Lauderdale on 22 December and then visit 41 countries with 82 guided tours and overnight stays in 18 cities before finally touching down in Stockholm on 10 June, 2027.

“Extended voyages like our World Cruises allow curious travellers to experience dozens of destinations, iconic landmarks and rich cultures in one seamless journey, making them truly the adventures of a lifetime,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman and CEO of Viking.

Guests can explore ports of call in Hawaii and journey through the isles of the South Pacific, including French Polynesia; traverse New Zealand and Australia; sail to iconic destinations throughout Asia; and finally travel up the western coast of Africa to Europe before concluding in either London or Stockholm.

A shorter, 153-day portion of the sailing, Viking World Voyage IV, departs from Los Angeles on 8 January, 2027 and visits 37 countries with 18 overnight ports of call before ending in Stockholm

The 142-day Viking World Cruise 2026-2027segment from Fort Lauderdale to London visits 31 countries, while the 125-day voyage, Viking World Discoveries, departs from Los Angeles and visits 27 countries before ending in London.

Viking have put together four 2026-2027 World Cruise options which, if taken in total, add up to the 170-day Viking World Voyage III

30/01/2025

It was only a matter of time before the increasingly mammoth size of modern cruise ships would have consequences, writes SeaView editor David Simpson.

So this week’s announcement by the Mayor of Nice that the chic Mediterranean resort on the Cote d’Azur, pictured below, is slamming the door on them came as no surprise.

Venice got the ball rolling last year, and Christian Estrosi said Nice would be following suit from 1 July, banning any ship carrying more than 900 passengers from dropping them ashore for sight-seeing excursions.

Mr Estrosi gave a clue as to what was in store when he addressed a crowd of supporters at Nice’s traditional New Year’s ceremony last week.

“I don’t want floating hotels to drop anchor in front of Nice,” he told them. “Cruises that pollute, that dump their low-cost clientele who consume nothing but leave their waste behind, have no place here.”

It is understood that upwards of 40 cruise liners due to dock in local waters this summer will be affected.

Barcelona, Amsterdam and Santorini have introduced similar measures, and I for one am not surprised by all of this.

When I cruised on Ponant’s small ship L’Austral to the beautiful Aegean island of Santorini in 2012, the writing was already on the wall.

We found ourselves surrounded by four huge ships spilling thousands of guests ashore, and the experience of being wedged into this tide of bodies trying to reach the town high above us was the worst I have ever had to endure during a cruise visit.

We could barely breathe when we reached the top, and were relieved when it was all over and we were safely back on board.

And, remember, this was 12 years ago. No wonder the island authorities eventually decided something had to be done.

Many cruise lines may well rue the day it was decided cruise ships the size of multi-storey car parks were the way forward.

Image courtesy of explorenicecotedazur.com

The Mayor of Nice's announcement that the French resort is slamming the door on huge cruise ships comes as no surprise.

26/01/2025

SeaDream Yacht Club has become the first cruise line to allow payment for voyages using cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin.

Guests can now book their voyages to the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Norway, and Northern Europe using any of more than 200 of the most frequently used cryptocurrencies.

The leading cryptocurrency payment platform Coinbase Commerce will be used to ensure secure, reliable and efficient payment processing.

“This underscores our commitment to staying ahead of emerging trends. For us, crypto is the natural next step forward,” said Andreas Brynestad of SeaDream Yacht Club.

SeaDream will also be implementing a digital payment solution for cryptocurrency on its website seadream.com over the coming weeks.

SeaDream Yacht Club becomes the first cruise line to allow payment by cryptocurrencies

21/01/2025

Holland America Line is to invest $70m in a multi-year expansion of its Denali Lodge in Alaska to provide expanded guest capacity and improved facilities.

Work will start in this year, with additional enhancements taking place in 2026 and 2027.

The expansion comprises:

2025: Enhancements to the riverside interpretive trail with scenic viewpoints, improved on-site wayfinding, refined menu offerings for restaurants and public space improvements for the Cottonwood and Canyon Lodge guest room buildings.

2026: 48 remodelled rooms in the Holland America Denali Lodge, a new coffee shop and a remodelled Karstens Public House with expanded indoor and outdoor seating.
2027: A new guestroom building with 120 suite and standard rooms and a main lodge renovation that will include a new restaurant concept, a new lobby bar and an enhanced coffee experience.

HAL president Beth Bodensteiner said: “This investment is a win for Alaska, our guests and Holland America Line. Enhancing and expanding Denali Lodge will help meet the growing interest in combined land and sea Cruisetours for our 49th state and further support the Alaska tourism industry.”

Each itinerary includes a scenic ride on the glass-domed McKinley Explorer train and select itineraries visit Dawson and rides through the White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad from Skagway.

Holland America Line to invest $70m on expansion of its Denali Lodge in Alaska's wilderness

04/01/2025

Robbie Williams is to perform an exclusive open-air concert for 15,000 guests at the christening of TUI Cruises’ Mein Schiff Relax in Malaga in April.

The bad news for fans of the international superstar is that the event, and the cruise, is already a sell-out.

Guests on on Mein Schiff 5 and Mein Schiff 7 will also be sailing in so that their guests can enjoy the party.

Williams is already a feel-good ambassador of Mein Schiff Relax.

Image courtesy of TUI Cruises

Robbie Williams to perform exclusive open-air concert for 15,000 guests a christening of TUI Cruises' Mein Schiff Relax in April.

21/12/2024

Make your spirits bright this festive season with Ambassador Cruise Line's Shiploads of Savings campaign.

Until 12 February you can delve into a Tsackful of great deals on sailings across the 2025, 2026 and 2027 seasons.

Offers include half price Premium Drinks Packages on selected sailings in the 25/26 season and Buy One, Get One Half Price on all 26/27 sailings plus 20% off the Expedition Drinks Package when booking the Ambassador Fare.

They are available for both ships in the Ambassador fleet, with Ambience operating from her home port of London Cruise Terminal and Ambition sailing from seven additional regional ports including Newcastle, Dundee, Liverpool, Belfast, Bristol, Falmouth and Portsmouth.

For full details visit the Ambassador website

No-fly cruise line Ambassador launches its Shiploads of Savings campaign,

30/10/2024

How will Alaska authorities view MSC's first ever summer season to the region in 2026 as the guest numbers continue to pile up?

As Alaska battles to contain the impact of cruise tourism, the announcement that MSC Cruises will be sailing there for the first time in summer 2026 will hardly cheer them up.

Cruise lines including Carnival, Royal Caribbean and Norwegian signed have already signed an agreement with Juneau tourism officials to help manage the thousands of passengers getting off the boats at the same time and visiting the area.

It is difficult to see how this can be achieved without some kind of ticket ashore lottery.

It is understood that numbers of visitors will be capped at 16,000 from Sunday to Friday, reduced to 12,000 on Saturdays.

That still sounds like a hell of a lot of people to me.

When I visited Alaska onboard Silver Shadow in 2008, cruising as we know it today was pretty much in its infancy, which meant our experience left us with memories to last a lifetime. Sledding with huskies, white water rafting. We and out shipmates almost had the place to ourselves

By the time we visited Santorini with Ponant a few years later, the cruise crush was starting the gather speed.

Five ships spilling many thousands of its guests into this pretty town made it virtually impossible to move a muscle once ashore. For me, it was a nightmare never to be forgotten.

Gianni Onorato, CEO of MSC Cruises, said this week: “By introducing sailings to Alaska we’re further extending our global offering and giving our guests the opportunity to experience this must-see region."

He is right. Alaska is a must-see region, but unless strict number controls are introduced, the guest experience will be further eroded.

17/10/2024

The days of cruising being the preserve of seniors with plenty of lolly has been well and truly turned around.

A recent survey by cruise specialist cruise.co.uk discovered that the age of cruisers has plunged by 11 years to just 55 in the last five years.

Almost 500,000 passengers took part, and bookings made so far in 2024 showed an average age of 55 compared with 66 in 2019.

The big fall is put down to the growing trend for multi-generational travel and cruising's growing appeal to younger audiences, driven by new ships featuring family-friendly attractions and itineraries showcasing destinations worldwide.

Tony Andrews, managing director of cruise.co.uk, said: “These findings are clear evidence of cruise’s growing appeal to a wider audience.

"As new ships and itineraries emerge, passengers of all ages are discovering that a holiday at sea offers a host of one-of-a-kind experiences, both onboard and ashore, with activities designed to appeal to all tastes."

www.cruise.co.uk or call 0330 303 8478

Average age of cruisers plunges by 11 years since 2019, according to new research.

10/10/2024

Carnival has become the first cruise operator to embark seven million guests from New Orleans.

After 30 years cruising from Port NOLA, Carnival Valor's Captain, Antonio Modaffari, and some of his team welcomed the Litteral family onboard, pictured, on Monday (30 September) with an impromptu celebration to mark the occasion.

Carnival takes on 400,000 guests from Port NOLA each year, with Carnival Valor and Carnival Liberty currently sailing year-round from the port, with itineraries to the Bahamas, Mexico and the Caribbean.

Next year, Carnival Liberty will sail nine voyages from New Orleans that will visit Celebration Key, the cruise line’s new exclusive destination on the island of Grand Bahama, opening in July.

Note from SeaView editor: If you have enough time in New Orleans, be sure to visit the must-see National WWII museum.

Carnival Cruise Line becomes the first cruise line to embark seven million guests from New Orleans.

23/09/2024

If you like classical music and travel, then here's smothing not to be missed.

Classic FM has teamed up with Sue Perkins, one of the nation’s best loved broadcasters, comedians and travel presenters, to host a new four-part series Race to Antarctica with HX – Hurtigruten Expeditions.

In the programme, which launched on Friday, Sue takes everyone on a fascinating musical expedition from the UK to Antarctica, exploring cities, countries and continents, while discovering classical music connections along the way.

And for the next three Friday evenings, listeners will continue travel with Sue through iconic destinations – many visited on HX’s voyages, from the British Isles and Europe, Greenland, the Northwest Passage, Alaska, the USA, South America and, finally, the magical and other worldly destination of Antarctica.

As Sue ventures south, she delves into the rich cultural heritage of each region, discovering classical masterpieces that originated in or were inspired by these truly breathtaking destinations, such as Mendelssohn’s Hebrides Overture (Fingal’s Cave), Danzon No.2 by Mexican-born Arturo Marquez and Vaughan Williams’ Symphony No.7 (Sinfonia Antarctica).

She said: “I am thrilled to be part of the Classic FM family and embark on this new series which perfectly combines two of my great passions – classical music and travel. I look forward to joining with Classic FM’s well-travelled audience as we embark on this musical voyage together.”

Suzanne Hall, European Marketing Director at HX, said: “Sue’s spirit of curiosity and adventure aligns perfectly with our values at HX, making this collaboration a natural fit. This series is the perfect way to take listeners on the musical version of our expeditions.”

Race to Antarctica with HX – Hurtigruten Expeditions is broadcast every Friday at 9pm on Classic FM.

Classic FM teams up with broadcaster and travel presenter Sue Perkins to host a four-part series Race to Antarctica with HX - Hurtigruten Expeditions

23/09/2024

Here's what Norwegian Cruise Line's next evolution of its Prima Plus Class will look when the all-new Norwegian Luna takes a bow in April 2026.

And if you don't want to miss out on what this extraordinary ship has to offer, then her round-trip Caribbean cruises from Miami have already opened for sale.

Norwegian Luna will kick off her inaugural Caribbean season with two western itineraries to Roatan Island, Honduras; Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico; and Harvest Caye, Belize, the Brand’s resort-style destination.

The ship will then sail seven-day cruises with calls to the beautiful Eastern Caribbean destinations of Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; St Thomas, US Virgin Islands; and Great Stirrup Cay, NCL’s private island in the Bahamas, which will feature a brand-new pier by late 2025.

At 1,056 feet long, 156,300 gross tons, and accommodating approximately 3,550 guests at double occupancy, Norwegian Luna will boast an overall 10 per cent size and capacity increase from Prima Class ships, Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva.

Her celestial hull art, named La Luna, will showcase a vibrant dreamscape by ELLE, the highly acclaimed street artist from Napa, California, who has partnered with popular brand names such as Nike, Reebok and Ralph Lauren.

www.ncl.com

Marking the company’s 21st ship, Norwegian Luna may not be setting sail until 4 April 2026 but her Caribbean cruises are already on sale

23/09/2024

Windstar Cruises is offering a significant expansion of its year-round itineraries in the South Pacific on Star Breeze from 2026.

You'll be able to soak up new experiences in Fiji, Tonga and the Cook Islands, in addition to existing sailings in Tahiti and the Society Islands, the Tuamotus, and the Marquesas.

Windstar has sailed in Tahiti for more than 36 years so it's fair to say knows what it is doing ,and Windstar President Christopher Prelog says: “These new additions are a natural progression for us, as these faraway South Pacific islands exemplify the heart of Polynesian culture."

“We can go to places like Tonga and Taveuni without overwhelming the destination from a tourism, ecological, and cultural perspective, due to our small size and the great relationships we have built while sailing in the region over decades.”

If you book a 2026 South Pacific cruise by 31 October 2024 you'll enjoy a complimentary all-Inclusive experience (worth $89/day per guest) featuring Wi-Fi; unlimited wine, beer and cocktails; and all gratuities – plus a $100 onboard credit per stateroom.

Windstar offers a significant expansion of its year-round itineraries in the South Pacific on Star Breeze from 2026

29/04/2024

Two-time Grammy Award-winning superstar Gloria Gaynor is going to sing the house down on Crystal Serenity in October.

She will perform with her 10-piece band on on 26 October during the 14 night Québec City to Fort Lauderdale cruise, belting out a selection of her greatest hits.

And if that isn't good enough, guests will be able to get up close and personal during an intimate Q&A session.

Known worldwide for her timeless hits like I Will Survive and Never Can Say Goodbye, Ms Gaynor has been a trailblazer in the music industry for decades, captivating audiences across the globe.

“I am overjoyed to join Crystal Serenity for what promises to be an unforgettable voyage,” said Gaynor. “Music has the power to bring people together, and I am honoured to share my passion with the discerning guests of Crystal.”

19/04/2024

Queen Anne officially joined Cunard’s iconic fleet in Italy today (19 April) marking the first time since 1999 that Cunard will have four ships in simultaneous service.

The 3,000-guest ship was handed over during a traditional ceremony at the Fincantieri Marghera shipyard in Venice ahead of her seven-day maiden voyage which departs Southampton on 3 May.

Queen Anne is the 249th ship to sail under the Cunard flag.

Weighing in at 114,000-tons and spanning 14 decks, she will offer travellers several breath-taking experiences, and more choices of entertainment, dining, and bars than any other previous Cunard ship.

Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, said: “We are so excited to welcome Queen Anne to our fleet as she completes a remarkable quartet alongside Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth, and Queen Victoria – marking the first time since 1999 that Cunard will have four ships in simultaneous service.

“We are now fully focused on readying her to welcome guests for her maiden voyage on 3 May before she embarks on an historic British Isles Festival Voyage, including a momentous Naming Ceremony in Cunard’s spiritual home of Liverpool on 3 June.”

www.cunard.com

Queen Anne officially joins Cunard’s iconic fleet in Venice marking the first time since 1999 that Cunard will have four ships sailing together

28/03/2024

For those of an unsound disposition, DON'T READ THIS.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises is selling its mid-bogglingsuite on Seven Seas Splendor's 2027 world cruise for the record-breaking sum of - WAIT FOR IT - £1.3m.

OK, it is for two people, and the lucky sailors will be indulging themselves for 140 nights in the mansion-sized Regent Suite.

And then, of courses there's the

:: Personal car and driver in every port
:: Original work by Picasso adorning the walls
:: A custom Steinway Grand Maroque Piano by Dakota Jackson
:: And the comfort of a hand-crafted Hästens Vividus mattress and bed set-up, worth over $200,000

Hardly surprising Regent are marketing ther suite as the most exclusive residence at sea, also featuring unobstructed views over the ship’s bow from the 1,300 square-foot wraparound veranda and, at 4,443 total square feet.

It is home to an in-suite spa retreat with a personal sauna, steam room, and whirlpool bath. And Regent Suite guests will also have:

Setting sail on 11 January 2027 from Miami to New York, the all-inclusive cruise will visit 71 ports of call in the Caribbean, the Pacific Islands, Australia and New Zealand, Asia, Africa and Europe.

Time to get your cheque book out.

www.rssc.com

Regent offers ultimate world cruise package for an eye-watering £1.3m

26/03/2024

How's this for a cool deal? HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions) are knocking up to 25% off sailings between 1 April 2025 and 31 March 2026 .

And if you book and then later find the same cabin for a lower price, HX will refund the difference as part of the HX Price Promise.

The offers cover a wide range of destinations from Antarctica to Alaska and Galápagos to Greenland, and are valid on bookings made before 30 June.

This follows the recent news that HX will be introducing ‘all-inclusive’ cruising as standard across the whole fleet from November 2024.

www.hurtigruten.com

HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions) offer an early booking discount of up to 25% off sailings between 1 April 2025 and 31 March 2026 when booked before 30 June