News in Brief:Seatrade Cruise News Latest Headlines

 

Fincantieri's Ancona yard delivers Viking Vela, 11th in a series This slightly larger ship measures 54,300gt with capacity for 998 passengers. Full article

Virgin Voyages breaks out annual cruise pass, bitcoin accepted The base fare is $120,000 for a spot in a sea terrace cabin, and the pass is valid for one year from the desired start date. Full article

Carnival Cruise Line and Holland America/Seabourn swap CFOs Jeremy Schiller becomes Carnival's CFO and Jim Heaney CFO at Holland America Line and Seabourn. Full article

Queen Anne boosts Cunard’s 2024 bookings The launch of Queen Anne in spring has been a key factor in Cunard's record number of bookings. Full article

Ambition to host ORCA workshop for tomorrow’s conservationists A new initiative with long-standing charity partner, ORCA, will see future conservationists train onboard Ambassador’s Ambition. Full article

CruiseAberdeenshire launched to promote the region VisitAberdeenshire has been established to drive demand to visit Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire in Scotland. Full article

APT Travel Group opens new global headquarters in Melbourne The family-owned touring and cruising company has grown into a global business. Full article

Bark EUROPA tall ship is the latest to join ECN’s ranks Launched in April 2023, the Expedition Cruise Network has 28 expedition cruise line members. Full article

Mitsui Ocean Fuji debuts in Yokohama 'We are thrilled to greet our very first guests and look forward to a prosperous future for our beautiful new ship,' Mitsui Ocean Cruises President Tsunemichi Mukai said. Full article

Crystal's second half 2026 cruises span the Adriatic to Alaska 'Travelers will uncover both iconic landmarks and hidden gems,' itinerary planner Mario Parodi said, adding excursions will be 'expertly crafted' with Abercrombie & Kent. Full article

Nicole Costantin to oversee sales for MSC Cruises Australia This follows the departure of Lisa Teiotu, who was thanked for her contribution during the past five years. Full article

Cruise lines alarmed by Mexico plan for $42 fee per passenger This would remove an 'in transit' exemption that has applied to cruise passengers for more than two decades, FCCA CEO Michele Paige said. Full article

China Merchants floats out 7th SunStone ship, Douglas Mawson Completing the Infinity expedition series, the vessel is scheduled to enter service in late 2025 in Antarctica for Aurora Expeditions. Full article