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Villa Vie Residences Unveils Updated World Cruise Itinerary

Villa Vie Residences has revealed significant changes to the itinerary of its three-year world cruise aboard the Odyssey, which recently began service.

Villa Vie Odyssey

Originally planned to explore North America and the Caribbean in October, the cruise will now commence its journey in Europe.

This comes after a launch that was notably delayed by several months, with many false starts before the itinerary could begin.

The Odyssey, a ship originally built in 1993, will now start its European tour, visiting destinations such as France, Portugal, Spain, Gibraltar, and Morocco.

A notable highlight includes sailing up the Guadalquivir River for a two-day visit to Seville, Spain.

Following this, the ship will proceed to the Canary Islands, stopping in Funchal, Madeira, and Santa Cruz de Tenerife, before heading to Africa with scheduled visits to Dakar, Senegal, and two ports in Cape Verde: Porto Grande and Praia.

After completing its African segment, the Odyssey will embark on an eight-day transatlantic journey, resuming its original itinerary in Bridgetown, Barbados, by mid-November.

In December, before transiting the Panama Canal, the ship will visit Caribbean destinations such as St. Maarten, Fort-de-France, and St. John’s.

In early 2025, the Odyssey will explore South America, with plans to navigate the Amazon River and offer scenic cruising in Antarctica.

The ship will make its North American debut in April, focusing on the U.S. West Coast, followed by summer exploration of Alaska and Canada.

The itinerary was up in the air following the delayed launch, but now those guests who’ve bought residential cabins can start to look forward to exploring the world with this new itinerary.

Cabins are also available for anyone who wishes to join the ship for part of the journey – segments are on sale now through the Villa Vie Residences website.

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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

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Tragedy As Woman Dies Going Overboard From MSC Cruise Ship

A young woman, reportedly in her 20s, tragically fell overboard from MSC Cruises’ MSC Virtuosa near the Channel Islands in the English Channel on 12th October 2024.

MSC Virtuosa

The incident occurred shortly after midnight as the ship was travelling from the Channel Islands to Southampton, England. A distress call was made at 2 a.m., which led to immediate rescue operations.

The crew used spotlights to search the waters, and within half an hour the French navy had recovered the passenger and taken her to a hospital in Tourlaville, Normandy, where she was pronounced dead.

MSC Virtuosa was on a 14-night Northern Europe voyage. The ship had recently visited Lisbon, Portugal, and was nearing the end of its journey in Southampton.

“A guest on board MSC Virtuosa went overboard on 12 October, while the ship was sailing to Southampton. The body was later recovered with the involvement of the authorities.

“We are deeply saddened by this tragic event, and our thoughts are with the family during this difficult time. Out of respect for their privacy, we will not be providing further details.”

MSC Cruises statement

The circumstances surrounding the fall are currently under investigation. Officials are examining surveillance footage and interviewing potential witnesses to understand the events leading up to the tragedy.

Overboard incidents with MSC

In the past year, MSC Cruises has faced several unfortunate incidents of passengers and crew members going overboard.

In June 2024, a crew member from the MSC Musica went overboard while the ship was sailing through the Mediterranean.

And just prior to that, a passenger aboard the MSC Euribia fell overboard in Norway. Fortunately, the individual was rescued by helicopter and transported to a hospital for medical attention.

This marked the second such incident for the MSC Euribia within a span of three months. In March 2024, a 23-year-old Scottish passenger went missing after falling overboard during the ship’s voyage to Hamburg, Germany.

Additionally, in February 2024, an American passenger fell overboard from MSC World Europa while the ship was docked in Malta.

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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

Read more about me

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Port Everglades And Royal Caribbean Group Extend Agreement

For 25 years, Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL) has homeported cruise ships at Port Everglades. The company is on course to continue its partnership following the approval of an extension to its Passenger Terminal and Berth User Agreement by the Broward County Board of Commissioners.

Port Everglades Agreement Renewed

The approval extends the user agreement through Sept. 30, 2030, and gives the cruise line a second option term for an additional five years. Port Everglades and Royal Caribbean Group are also exploring facility upgrades for Cruise Terminal 29 to accommodate newer ships across the company’s fleet.

“I thank the County Commissioners for helping us move forward on our commitment to attract and retain customers like Royal Caribbean Group that substantially lift our local economy,” said Joseph Morris, CEO and Port Director of Port Everglades. 

According to an analysis by national maritime economic consultancy Martin Associates, this agreement will boost the local economy to $581.9 million in business revenue annually through increased cruise activity from 2027 to 2030. The port will welcome at least 1.3 million guests annually, and 355 vessel calls each year. It would support 4,095 regional jobs annually, including 1,829 direct local jobs, 1,221 indirect jobs, and 1,046 induced jobs.

Royal Caribbean Group owns three cruise lines: Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea, all of which operate at the port. 

Get To Know Port Everglades

Port Everglades offers everything under the sun, from Caribbean cruises to world voyages to fast ferry getaways—all from the vacation paradise of Greater Fort Lauderdale. Its enviable location in the heart of South Florida and the neighboring Caribbean makes it one of the three busiest cruise ports in the world, with nearly 4 million passengers anticipated this cruise season.

Guests enjoy the port’s proximity to three international airports, including the rapidly growing Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL), less than two miles away. For pre- and post-cruise stays, Port Everglades is a short drive to the sweeping beachfront, a vibrant art scene, world-class restaurants, craft breweries, entertainment, shopping, casinos, and family-friendly activities—including the area’s namesake, the Florida Everglades.

View details on the latest cruise offerings at PortEverglades.net

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Cunard Partners With Fashion Icon Christian Siriano As Luxury Cruise Line Announces 2025 Transatlantic Fashion Week

Cunard has announced that fashion icon Christian Siriano will headline its Transatlantic Fashion Week in 2025.

Christian Siriano has established himself as a tour de force in the fashion world since launching his eponymous collection in 2008 following his studies in London under Vivienne Westwood and Alexander McQueen.

Fashion Icon Christian Siriano

Cunard's Flagship Queen Mary 2Cunard's Flagship Queen Mary 2
Cunard’s Flagship Queen Mary 2

His designs have been worn by global stars such as Lady Gaga, Oprah, Julia Roberts, Michelle Obama, and Kamala Harris. The brand just celebrated its 15th anniversary, and the Siriano Atelier continues to celebrate beauty and diversity in the ever-changing fashion industry.

2025 Transatlantic Fashion Week

Siriano will be the headline designer aboard flagship Queen Mary 2 for the Transatlantic Fashion Week voyage from New York to Southampton between October 31 and November 7.

He will unveil some archival highlights during an exclusive runway show in the Queens Room, joined by an exciting line-up of renowned faces from the world of fashion.

Christian will also share insights from his distinguished career during an intimate Q&A session in the Royal Court Theatre. During the seven-night crossing, guests will have the opportunity to meet him personally at book signings.

The 2025 edition of Transatlantic Fashion Week will be the fifth voyage of its kind. It is a real celebration of the ever-fascinating world of fashion, set amidst the backdrop of Cunard’s stylish flagship.

Additional fashion experts joining the voyage will be announced at a later date. Prices currently start from $2,738 per person based on two sharing a Britannia Balcony stateroom.

Cunard’s Transatlantic Fashion Weeks

Since its inception in 2016, Transatlantic Fashion Week on Queen Mary 2 has been a staple of Cunard’s Event Voyages, conceived by Gail Sackloff OBE. With a rich legacy of glamour and fashion, Cunard has welcomed luminaries such as Elizabeth Taylor, Rita Hayworth, Meryl Streep, Uma Thurman, and Carly Simon. Past headliners of Transatlantic Fashion Week include Dame Zandra Rhodes, Julien Macdonald, Virginia Bates, and Stephen Jones OBE.

In addition to showcasing established designers, the event offers a platform for emerging talent.

Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, said: “Christian Siriano is a true visionary, and we are delighted to have him lead our 2025 Transatlantic Fashion Week. His bold old-school glamour mirrors Cunard’s own blend of timeless elegance and modern luxury. Our Fashion Week voyages have become must-attend events, attracting celebrated designers from around the world, and there’s no better venue for such an occasion than Queen Mary 2 – the world’s most glamourous ocean liner.”

Christian Siriano added: “It’s a wonderful opportunity to be part of Cunard’s iconic Transatlantic Fashion Week and I am excited to headline next year’s voyage. What a unique way to showcase my designs that celebrate both the heritage of fashion as well as its future. I can’t wait to show guests on board a fabulous and once-in-a-lifetime experience!”

For more information about Cunard or to book a voyage, contact your Travel Advisor, call Cunard at 1-800-728-6273, or visit www.cunard.com.

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Viking Takes Delivery Of Newest Egypt Ship, Viking Sobek

Viking® has announced it has taken delivery of the company’s newest ship for the Nile River, the Viking Sobek. The delivery ceremony occurred when the new ship was presented at the Massara shipyard in Cairo, Egypt. The 82-guest Viking Sobek joins the company’s growing fleet of state-of-the-art ships for the Nile River and will sail Viking’s popular 12-day Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary.

“We are proud to welcome the Viking Sobek to our award-winning fleet. In our view, these identical sister ships are by far the most elegant vessels on the Nile,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman and CEO of Viking. “Egypt has always been a destination of great interest among our guests, and demand for these voyages continues to be strong. With the arrival of the Viking Sobek, we look forward to introducing even more curious travelers to the country’s rich history and fascinating cultural treasures.” 

The Viking Sobek & Viking’s Growing Egypt Fleet

Hosting 82 guests in 41 staterooms, the new Viking Sobek is inspired by Viking’s award-winning river and ocean ships with the elegant Scandinavian design for which Viking is known. An identical sister ship to the Viking Osiris, the Viking Aton and the Viking Hathor, the Viking Sobek features several aspects familiar to Viking guests, such as a distinctive square bow and an indoor/outdoor Aquavit Terrace. Other ships in the Egypt fleet include the Viking Ra and the MS Antares. Viking plans to welcome four additional ships in the next two years—the Viking Amun and the Viking Thoth in 2025 and the Viking Sekhmet and the Viking Ptah in 2026—bringing Viking’s fleet to 10 vessels on the Nile River.

Viking’s Pharaohs & Pyramids Itinerary

Viking’s Pharaohs & Pyramids Itinerary (Credit: Viking)

During the 12-day Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary, guests begin with a three-night stay at a first-class hotel in Cairo, where they can visit iconic sites such as the Great Pyramids of Giza, the necropolis of Sakkara, the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, or the Grand Egyptian Museum. Guests then fly to Luxor, where they visit the Temples of Luxor and Karnak before boarding a Viking river ship for an eight-day roundtrip cruise on the Nile River, featuring visits to the tomb of Nefertari in the Valley of the Queens and the tomb of Tutankhamen in the Valley of the Kings, and excursions to the Temple of Khnum in Esna, the Dendera Temple complex in Qena, the temples at Abu Simbel and the High Dam in Aswan, and a visit to a colorful Nubian village, where guests can experience a traditional elementary school. Finally, the journey concludes with a flight back to Cairo for a final night in the ancient city.

Highclere Castle, Egypt & Viking

For years, Viking has offered a variety of ways for its guests to experience life at Highclere Castle, which is the home of the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon and the historic estate best known as the filming location of Downton Abbey. George Herbert, the 8th Earl of Carnarvon, is also the godfather of the Viking Osiris. His great-grandfather, the 5th Earl of Carnarvon, was the benefactor and co-explorer of Howard Carter, the world’s most famous Egyptologist; together, they discovered the tomb of Tutankhamun on November 4, 1922. Among many talents, the 5th Earl was an avid amateur photographer with an artistic eye for composition.

His photographs are currently at Highclere Castle, stored in photo albums in The Library. They show the process of discovering and excavating the tomb of Tutankhamen and scenes of daily life in Egypt of the period. With kind permission, the Carnarvons have allowed Viking to share this private collection with guests sailing on board the Viking Osiris and her sister ships.

For guests looking to extend their journey in Egypt, Viking also offers pre- and Post Extensions that provide Privileged Access to archives and exhibits. Guests on the five-day British Collections of Ancient Egypt extension will begin the journey in London, where they will meet their Viking Tour Director, an expert Egyptologist, and experience Privileged Access to two museums: first, a private, early morning visit to the Egyptian Collection at the British Museum before it opens to the general public – and then a visit to the home and personal museum of world-renowned architect, Sir John Soane, where the tour will be illuminated by candlelight, a re-enactment of how Soane entertained guests and showcased his exquisite collection of Egyptian antiquities, including a 3,000-year-old Egyptian sarcophagus.

Guests will also visit London’s Petrie Museum, which houses more than 80,000 ancient Egypt and Sudan artifacts. In Oxford, guests will visit the Ashmolean Museum, one of the oldest in the world and home to a varied collection of Egyptian mummies and art—and go behind the scenes at Oxford University’s Griffith Institute, where they will enjoy a Privileged Access visit to see Howard Carter’s archives, which detail the discovery of Tutankhamen’s tomb. Lastly, guests will have further privileged access with an exclusive visit to Highclere Castle to view the Earl of Carnarvon’s magnificent private collection of Egyptian artifacts, archives, and exhibits that are not ordinarily accessible to the public.

Viking’s Award-Winning Fleet

Viking Takes Delivery of Newest Egypt Ship, Viking Sobek | 12Viking Takes Delivery of Newest Egypt Ship, Viking Sobek | 12
Torstein Hagen, Chairman and CEO of Viking (Credit: Viking)

Viking was rated #1 for Rivers, as well as #1 for Oceans and #1 for Expeditions, by Condé Nast Traveler in the 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards for the second consecutive year. This achievement marked the first time a travel company won these three categories in back-to-back years. Viking’s Egypt ships have also been included in Condé Nast Traveler’s “Hot List” the last two years. Viking was also named a “Best Luxury River Cruise of 2024” in Forbes’ “Best Luxury Cruises” list. Additionally, TIME magazine featured both Giza and Saqqara on its “World’s Greatest Places” 2023 list, mentioning sailing the Nile River with Viking. TIME notes that Viking is among the very few who stop in both Giza and the village of Sakkara, where excavation sites, like the megatombs of animal and human mummies, are active.

For additional information, contact Viking at 1-800-2-VIKING (1-800-284-5464) or visit www.viking.com. For Viking’s award-winning enrichment channel, visit www.viking.tv.

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Holland America Line Unveils Exclusive Sparkling Wine

Holland America Line is introducing its first-ever branded sparkling wine this October in collaboration with Four Feathers Wine Services, based in Prosser, Washington. This exclusive sparkling wine is crafted using Methode Traditionnelle, the same technique for producing Champagne.  

“Our goal was to create a wine that elevates a sense of luxury onboard,” said Drew Foulk, senior manager of beverage and dining operations and innovation at Holland America Line. “Whether our guests are celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging during their voyage, we aim to provide them with something truly exceptional.”

Holland America and Four Feather Wine Services’ partnership brings together world-class winemaking expertise and state-of-the-art automated equipment to ensure that each bottle meets the highest quality standards.

“We’re thrilled to partner with Holland America to craft this exceptional sparkling wine,” said Rebecca De Kleine, general manager and director of winemaking at Four Feathers Wine Services. “This wine showcases the best of our estate-grown fruit, grown in the celebrated Columbia Valley. The Four Feathers team has ensured each bottle is a perfect balance of tradition and innovation. Sustainability is at the core of everything we do, from vineyard practices to production, ensuring that our commitment to environmental stewardship enhances the quality and integrity of this wine.”

Holland America Line Unveils Exclusive Sparkling Wine | 12Holland America Line Unveils Exclusive Sparkling Wine | 12
Holland America Line’s, Rotterdam. (Credit: Holland America Line)

The Holland America Line branded sparkling wine will be available for purchase by the glass and bottle in all restaurants and bars fleetwide. It will also be featured at key events, including the Captain’s Toast and Mariner Reception, and can be purchased for in-stateroom gift packages.

The wine is expected to be available to guests by the end of the month.

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Seabourn Unveils New 2026 Voyages

Seabourn has announced an exciting program of immersive 2026 itineraries available on Seabourn’s ultra-luxury ocean fleet—Seabourn Ovation, Seabourn Encore, Seabourn Quest, and Seabourn Sojourn—which will explore the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Alaska and British Columbia, Japan, and Canada and New England between March and December 2026. The new program will feature more than 200 destinations in almost 40 countries on over 50 distinctive itineraries, including two unique voyages that will feature a chance to view the total solar eclipse occurring on August 12, 2026.

Seabourn’s New 2026 Voyages

The new 2026 Seabourn voyages are now on sale, with dates and full itinerary details available at www.seabourn.com.

With itineraries ranging from seven to 21 days, Seabourn will offer diverse experiences across multiple regions, immersing guests in authentic cultures while visiting a mix of renowned destinations and lesser-known, off-the-beaten-path ports. Seabourn Quest and Seabourn Sojourn will sail the Mediterranean from June to November 2026, covering destinations along the Mediterranean coast from Barcelona to Istanbul. Seabourn Ovation will explore the British Isles, Iceland, and the Norwegian Fjords and then cross the Atlantic to Canada & New England. For the first time, Seabourn Encore will spend the entire summer in Alaska, offering seven-day itineraries to explore the Last Frontier, along with sailings in Japan during peak spring blossoms and fall foliage periods. Seabourn Ovation will also offer two additional Southern Caribbean departures between Barbados and St. Maarten in late March 2026.

“Our new 2026 voyages were thoughtfully, well curated with our guests in mind, featuring a great combination of Seabourn all-time favorites along with many new unique experiences,” said Natalya Leahy, president of Seabourn. “With our private, yacht-like atmosphere, a personalized array of guest services, and captivating itineraries featuring boutique ports, there’s no better place to explore the world than on an ultra-luxury Seabourn ship. We invite our guests to join us and experience the best ultra-luxury travel experience at sea while exploring the world.”  

Itinerary highlights from the 2026 season include:

Mediterranean

Guests can experience the private, yacht-like atmosphere of Seabourn Quest and Seabourn Sojourn, while exploring boutique ports and sun-washed shores throughout the Mediterranean. The ships will visit 84 destinations across 15 countries, featuring overnight calls on select voyages to St. Tropez, France; Taormina, Italy; and La Joliette in Marseille, France, offering a gateway to the Provence region.

  • Seabourn Sojourn will sail to 59 ports in 17 countries during a series of 10-day itineraries to the Western Mediterranean between Barcelona, Civitavecchia (Rome) and Monte Carlo. On August 7, 2026, the ship’s 10-Day Spanish Gems & Solar Eclipse voyage will depart round-trip from Barcelona and offer a unique opportunity to view the total solar eclipse occurring just before sunset on August 12, 2026, from the waters of the Balearic Sea.
  • Seabourn Quest will visit 60 ports across 15 countries, including a maiden call to Ceuta, Spanish Morocco, and sail on a series of seven-day voyages between Dubrovnik, Fusina (Venice), Istanbul, and Athens, visiting beautiful small harbors and islands in Croatia, Greece, Montenegro, and Turkey. Each of these voyages can be combined to make 14- or 21-day voyages.

The 2026 program for each ship will be quintessentially Seabourn, with complimentary signature events such as a moving ‘Evening at Ephesus’ at Kuşadası, Turkey, a private concert in ancient ruins under the stars; and ‘Marina Day’ with complimentary water sports, weather dependent and at the captain’s discretion. Select itineraries will feature “Shopping with the Chef,” inviting guests to visit regional markets with Seabourn’s onboard executive chef to see how the freshest ingredients are chosen. This unique experience is available in select destinations, such as Barcelona, Dubrovnik, Valletta, Corfu and more.

Northern Europe – British Isles, Iceland & Norway

Guests can travel off the beaten paths of Norway, Iceland, and the British Isles on board Seabourn Ovation, which will visit more than 70 destinations in 18 countries on voyages ranging from seven to 22 days. From small colorful towns to the historic castles of Scotland to the stunning fjords of Norway, this region offers a rich tapestry of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Seabourn Ovation will sail on two 14-day departures through majestic fjords to the northernmost tip of Europe, the North Cape, departing May 16 and June 13, 2026. The June 13 departure coincides with Midsummer, celebrating the summer solstice and offering the ideal opportunity to experience the Midnight Sun. Rounding out Seabourn Ovation’s Northern Europe season are several departures of its 14-day Jewels of the British Isles voyages from Dover (London), which will include a combination of top destinations such as Belfast and Edinburgh with smaller gems like Oban, Scotland and Fishguard, Wales.

The award-winning ship will also sail a 14-day West Ireland Gems & Solar Eclipse voyage, departing on August 8, 2026, from Dover (London), England, to Reykjavik, Iceland. The ship will visit unique ports in Western Ireland, including Galway and Killybegs, and position itself off the coast of Ireland in the Atlantic Ocean to view the total solar eclipse on August 12, 2026. The voyage will also feature a special Seabourn Conversations program with Jane A Green, Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society, to educate guests about the solar eclipse.

Following the special eclipse voyage, Seabourn Ovation will depart on August 22, 2026, for a 22-Day Fire & Ice Passage from Iceland to Greenland and Atlantic Canada, reaching New York City in time for the fall colors in the northeast coast of North America.

Japan, Asia & North Pacific Crossings

Across the other side of the globe, Seabourn Encore will visit 30 destinations across six countries on seven itineraries between March and September 2026. Seabourn Encore will sail on her first season through Japan at the height of spring flowers and cherry blossom seasonal festivities, offering three 14-day roundtrip voyages from Yokohama (Tokyo), featuring overnight stays in Kobe, Maizuru, or Nagasaki. Starting in October 2026, three 12-day voyages between Yokohama (Tokyo) and Osaka will highlight the vibrant autumn foliage of both Japan and South Korea. These itineraries also include maiden calls to Sokcho in South Korea, and Beppu, Hososhima, and Toba in Japan, along with exclusive “Shopping with the Chef” experiences in select ports. Additionally, Seabourn Encore will offer 18- and 21-day Pacific Passage voyages between Japan and Alaska in April and September 2026.

Alaska & British Columbia

Seabourn Encore will reach the pristine waterways of the “Great Land” in summer 2026, marking its maiden arrival to Alaska & British Columbia. The 2026 Alaska program features 27 departures ranging from seven to 15 days, sailing from Vancouver or Juneau, Alaska, between May and September. These curated itineraries offer unique, smaller port experiences that showcase wildlife, breathtaking scenery, and the cultural traditions of the region. The ship will visit 17 destinations, including Sitka, Wrangell, Klawock, the Inian Islands, Hubbard Glacier, Glacier Bay National Park, and Misty Fjords National Monument in Alaska, as well as Alert Bay and Prince Rupert in British Columbia.

For a deeper and richer experience, guests may choose from a number of immersive experiences through Seabourn’s popular and unique Ventures by Seabourn program, featuring optional guided kayak and Zodiac tours led by the line’s world-class expedition team. In addition, guests sailing on a Seabourn Alaska voyage will receive a complimentary Helly Hansen all-weather jacket. On board Seabourn Encore, guests can expect the same intimate, small-ship experience, enhanced by exclusive amenities such as verandas in every suite, access to The Retreat—Seabourn’s private sanctuary on deck 12—Seabourn’s Sushi restaurant, and outdoor seating at Solis, the line’s newest fine-dining restaurant.

Canada & New England

After its Northern Europe season, Seabourn Ovation will set sail for Canada and New England, arriving in time to enjoy the majestic fall foliage landscapes, as the region transforms into a stunning world of crimson and gold. Guests will explore charming cosmopolitan cities, colonial landmarks, and picturesque villages in signature Seabourn style.

Seabourn Ovation will sail the St. Lawrence River for the first time, offering five departures between September and October 2026, featuring charming coastal communities, quintessential Quebecois towns, and overnight stays. These include three 12-day Canada & New England Fall Foliage cruises between Montreal and New York, featuring two full days in Quebec City and a stop in Bar Harbor, Maine; a 12-day Newfoundland & Gulf of St. Lawrence cruise with an overnight in St. John’s, Newfoundland; and a 13-day Atlantic Coast voyage from Montreal to Miami, with an overnight in Boston, Massachusetts.

For more details about Seabourn’s 2026 ultra-luxury itineraries or to explore the worldwide selection of Seabourn cruising options, call Seabourn at 1-800-929-9391, visit www.seabourn.com or contact a professional travel advisor.

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Customer Claims Discrimination Over Height Due To Carnival Comedy Club Seating

A Carnival cruise passenger has complained that she felt discriminated against during a comedy performance, after being unable to see the comedian from her seat.

Carnival Punchliner Comedy Club

John Heald, Carnival’s Brand Ambassador, posted the passenger’s complaint (anonymised) which detailed how, at 5 ft 6, she was unable to enjoy the comedy show in full.

She claimed that anyone over 6 feet tall should be forced to sit in the back row of all Carnival shows, and that “these guys get enough privileges in life” as it is.

She also says that she asked for reserved seating while onboard so that she could sit in the front row, but was told this wasn’t possible, which is her grounds for claiming discrimination.

Heald responded to the complaint publicly, saying that while he understood the inconvenience, it wouldn’t be fair to allow all adults of 5 ft 6 to reserve seating.

Heald also rightly asked whether that was considered short – according to the most recent data, the average height for men in the UK and US is 5 ft 9 while the average height for women is 5 ft 3.5 inches.

He also added a dollop of his trademark humour:

Is this discrimination? I really don’t want her to be upset and protest in the atrium screaming:

What do we want?
Rights for small people
When do we want them?
Shortly

John Heald’s Facebook page

As he also stated, the solution for anyone concerned about being able to see the show was to get there early, to make sure you have the best seat.

While I don’t agree with the guest here, I do think that adults on a Disney cruise wearing Mickey ears during a show are being selfish and are causing unnecessary problems.

If you’re wearing something on your head which could restrict the view of those behind you, take it off for the show.

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Cruise Mummy

Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

Read more about me

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Oceania Cruises Announces The Crêperie For New Ship Allura

Oceania Cruises is introducing a new dining venue called the Crêperie on its forthcoming ship, Allura.

Oceania Cruises Creperie

This ship is scheduled to set sail in July 2025. The Crêperie will provide guests with a selection of sweet delights, making it a special spot for dessert enthusiasts.

The Crêperie is part of Oceania Cruises’ commitment to delivering “The Finest Cuisine at Sea.”

It will feature a menu brimming with French crêpes and other delectable options. Guests can enjoy classic crêpes like crêpe Suzette or customise their own with various toppings.

“Allura, our eighth elegant small ship, represents the next step in Oceania Cruises’ evolution and a new way of exploring the world. Food is at the heart of everything we do at Oceania Cruises; The Finest Cuisine at Sea is not just a tagline, it’s a philosophy which drives our whole business

“However, finest does not always mean the fanciest – and our more relaxed, yet still refined, culinary venues, such as the beautiful new Crêperie aboard Allura, is a perfect example of this. With this addition on board Allura, our guests have never had more choice in what to eat and when – and of course all our dining venues on board are included for all guests free of charge.“

Frank Del Rio, president of Oceania Cruises

Situated next to Baristas, the cruise line’s coffee bar, the Crêperie will be a cosy and welcoming place. Guests can enjoy their treats in a setting reminiscent of a small café.

The menu at the Crêperie is crafted by Executive Culinary Directors and Master Chefs of France, Alex Quaretti and Eric Barale. There will be over 20 options to choose from, including both classic and innovative creations.

All dining venues, including the Crêperie, are included at no extra cost, offering great value. This means guests can enjoy a variety of foods without worrying about additional charges, enhancing their cruise experience.

More to explore on Allura

In addition to the Crêperie, Allura will offer a range of other exciting features and experiences for guests.

As the newest addition to Oceania Cruises’ fleet, Allura will continue the line’s tradition of intimate, luxurious cruising with a guest capacity of 1,200.

The ship will debut new spacious stateroom designs, including lavish Owner’s Suites furnished exclusively by the Ralph Lauren Home collection.

Guests onboard Allura can also expect an enhanced wellness offering, with the Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center providing state-of-the-art treatments and fitness programs, including plant-based culinary options at the Aquamar Kitchen.

The ship will feature the new Broadway-calibre entertainment venue, offering a series of vibrant performances, as well as a reimagined casino for those looking to enjoy some gaming.

For art lovers, Allura will also introduce new enrichment programs, including immersive art classes and guest lectures from experts in various fields.

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MSC Cruises Expands Guinness World Records Partnership Across Fleet

MSC Cruises has expanded its partnership with Guinness World Records to encompass its entire fleet over the next year.

MSC Guinness World Records

This decision follows the achievement of 30 world record titles in just 18 months since the partnership began in March 2023 on MSC Seascape and MSC World Europa.

The programme allows guests to attempt breaking official Guinness World Records through various onboard activities.

It’s currently available on 12 MSC ships, including MSC Bellissima, MSC Divina, MSC Euribia, MSC Grandiosa, MSC Magnifica, MSC Meraviglia, MSC Seascape, MSC Seashore, MSC Seaside, MSC Splendida, MSC Virtuosa, and MSC World Europa.

“The program has been hugely popular among guests, both adults and children alike. MSC Cruises guests and crew to date have broken 30 Guinness world record titles…

“We’re excited to be able to offer it on more of our ships for guests of all ages to enjoy. The extended partnership is part of MSC Cruises’ broader strategy to further elevate their onboard immersive entertainment programs and provide carefully crafted entertainment for guests of all tastes.

Steve Leatham, vice president of entertainment, MSC Cruises

The activities are popular with guests of all ages, featuring challenges such as pulling 100 metres of rope the fastest, completing 20 chair rotations in under 21 seconds, and putting on the most pairs of socks on one foot in under 30 seconds.

Participants who break a record are verified by an official Guinness World Records adjudicator and receive a certificate.

Since the programme began, MSC Cruises guests and crew have broken 30 Guinness World Record titles. These achievements are celebrated onboard, with participants receiving recognition for their efforts.

Variety is key for MSC

Beyond the thrill of breaking records, MSC Cruises offers a diverse range of activities to keep guests entertained throughout their journey.

From exhilarating waterslides and VR experiences in the MSC Virtual World to relaxing spa treatments and yoga sessions with panoramic sea views, there’s something for everyone.

Guests can also enjoy impressive theatre shows, culinary workshops, and themed parties.

For the more adventurous, the thrilling zip line or Formula 1 simulators offer unforgettable experiences, ensuring a perfect mix of relaxation and excitement at sea.

Activities and facilities vary by ship, so always check before you book.

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