News in Brief:Seatrade Cruise News Latest Headlines

 

Wave sales bump coming after winter storms? Cruise booking volume was already up — if not pricing — and miserable weather across much of the US may help business but other factors are coming into play. Read full story

MSC's new North America cruise division HQ opens in Miami The $100m office brings together 400 team members and is expected to support 1,500 additional jobs over the next three years. Read full story Kai Tak Cruise Terminal plans growth initiatives for 2026 Among the planned enhancements is a new airport check-in and baggage delivery service designed to improve the passenger experience. Read full story NCLH taps Meghan Montana as chief strategy officer She joins after financial roles at American Airlines and years in banking. Read full story

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Aman at Sea launch exceeds expectations CEO Jonathan Wilson tells what makes the yacht something 'Aman junkies' will love, and how the spacious suites — going for thousands of dollars a night — and itineraries set Amangati apart. Read full story New cruise talent platform ‘Academy Onboard’ launches The platform already serves 10,000+ members, with more than 25 active roles available across 24 major cruise lines. Read full story Celebrity chef Marco Pierre White leads P&O Cruises' Food Heroes lineup A flagship sailing will bring together three Food Heroes in one culinary voyage in 2026. Read full story Upcoming Seatrade Cruise Events Seatrade Cruise Global 13 - 16 April 2026. Miami Beach Convention Center. Miami Beach. FL. USA The international cruise industry event of the year is back! Hear the latest updates from across the industry and take part in discussions that will shape the future of cruising. Find out more › F&B@Sea 15 - 16 April 2026. Mana Wynwood Convention Center. Miami. FL. USA. The one-of-a-kind immersive F&B experience for the cruise industry. Meet visionary leaders, renowned chefs, and top mixologists who will unveil the latest trends and sustainable innovations transforming the industry. Find out more › Seatrade Cruise Med 16 - 17 September 2026. Las Palmas Cruise Port. Las Palmas. Spain. Seatrade Cruise Med is set to take place at the stunning new location of Las Palmas Cruise Port in Las Palmas, Spain. Join cruise professionals from the Mediterranean and adjoining seas as they come together to share ideas, forge new partnerships, and plan for the future of the cruise industry. Find out more ›

Crystal appoints Michael Young-Richards as key account manager, UK & Ireland He brings extensive experience and industry expertise to support Crystal’s trade partners and drive strategic growth in the UK market. Read full story Valletta Cruise Port achieves record 2025 passenger numbers Strong growth brought Valletta close to achieving the milestone of one million cruise passengers. Read full story Swan Hellenic partnering with top whale experts for Cape-to-Cape cruise Data collected onboard will be shared with HappyWhale, helping to advance global understanding of whales and their long-term protection. Read full story Queen Mary 2 makes Panama Canal debut Queen Mary 2 will also celebrate a reunion with its legendary namesake, the Queen Mary, for the first time in two decades. Read full story

Two new speciality venues boost Diamond Princess’ culinary lineup Diamond Princess is currently sailing roundtrip from Singapore, offering a range of immersive itineraries throughout the region. Read full story Tablets introduced across all staterooms on Celestyal Journey Celestyal is enhancing onboard operations with SuitePad tablets, streamlining guest services. Read full story

Marella unveils headline acts for 30th birthday celebrations The seven-night 30th Birthday voyages will transport passengers back to the vibrant era of the 1990s with a host of themed entertainment. Read full story My First Cruise Connections: Sandra Neffgen, director, shore excursions, AIDA Cruises Sandra Neffgen, director, shore excursions, AIDA Cruises, shares her cruise industry firsts. Read full story

More Topics Covered by Seatrade Cruise News Food and Beverage Covering trends, menu designs, suppliers, produce, and experiential dining and drinking. Find out more › Hotel Operations, Entertainment and Retail The latest news from across hotel operations, concessions, onboard retail and entertainment. Find out more › People and Opinions The latest news on the people making the headlines and expert opinion on market trends and developments. Find out more ›